Once the decision is made, begin the actual arrangements for placement. The provider will have forms for both you and the physician to complete. They will also require a payment for the upcoming months. Most adult care homes bill ahead. If there is a Power of Attorney, Living Will or other important legal document, the provider will want a copy of it for the chart. You may begin moving personal and furniture items in on an agreed upon date. It is best for everyone if this is done prior to the loved one’s arrival.
Adjusting to changes in his/her health, home and life are challenging adjustments to make. The first few weeks can be difficult so we recommend you keep as much familiar for your loved one as you can. Also, visit by phone or in person frequently. Be supportive and a good listener. This is a time of grieving so your love and support are critical to the transition. If there are angry or harsh words directed at you, please know that can be a part of grieving and again, be loving and supportive. If there is problem solving to do, help with that—this is a new page in his/her life and it will have a few wrinkles at first. If you can go for drives or out for a meal together, do so. You will find this is a time of mixed feelings and change for both of you. Nurture yourselves. This will truly ease as you work at continuing to enjoy your time together. Always remember that by putting a loved one in an adult care home, it does not mean that you are not taking care of their situation, it means you are taking the initiative in making the correct decision to have the loved one in a safe and caring environment which both you and they deserve to have. After a few short months you will notice that this move was exactly what needs to be done or what should have been done long ago.
We hope you have found this information helpful. If you have further questions though or just need to talk something through, please feel free to contact us by calling 503-849-3574 or by filling out the form below.
