The first month of care home living can be an emotional and challenging transition for both residents and their families. At Aurem Care, we understand that adjusting to a new environment takes time, and we’re here to support you every step of the way. In this blog, we’ll walk through what you and your loved one can expect during the first month and how we help make the experience as smooth as possible.
In the early days, it’s common for residents to feel a bit uncertain or out of place as they settle into their new routine. Aurem Care homes are designed to provide a welcoming environment where residents quickly become familiar with their surroundings and meet the friendly staff who will be looking after them.
In the first month, your loved one will meet the care team and get to know the other residents. This is an important part of settling in, as building social connections helps residents feel more comfortable. Our staff will spend time understanding your loved one’s needs, preferences, and routines to create a personalised care plan.
Pro Tip:
“At Aurem Care, we assign a dedicated member of the care team to act as a key worker for each new resident. This key worker will be a familiar face who regularly checks in to make sure everything is going well.”
From the beginning, residents are encouraged to participate in the various activities available at the care home. However, we recognise that transitioning to community-style living can be challenging for some. At Aurem Care, we understand that each resident adjusts at their own pace, and our approach is always person-centred.
For those who may find group activities overwhelming during the settling-in phase, we offer one-to-one activities that cater to individual preferences. This ensures that each resident feels comfortable and supported as they adjust to their new environment. Over time, many residents choose to join group activities, but we’ll always respect their individual preferences.
The first month is also a period of adjustment for families. We encourage family members to stay involved, visiting as often as they like and sharing feedback with our team. Your input helps us fine-tune the care plan to ensure it meets your loved one’s expectations. Many families find that regular visits in the early stages help ease the transition.
Pro Tip:
“We invite families to join their loved ones for meals or activities, allowing them to be part of the care home experience and build confidence in the new environment.”
Personalising your loved one’s living space can make the transition more comfortable. Bring familiar items such as photographs, artwork, or favourite blankets to help create a sense of home. At Aurem Care, we encourage residents and families to add personal touches to the room, so it feels more familiar and welcoming.
During the first month, the care team will work closely with your loved one to understand their daily routines, preferences, and care needs. This will help us develop a tailored care plan that covers everything from personal care to dietary requirements. The care plan is a living document that evolves as we get to know your loved one better.
It’s natural for residents to experience mixed emotions during the first month. Moving into a care home is a big life change, and some may feel anxious or homesick at first. Our care teams are trained to provide emotional support, offering reassurance and time to talk when needed. We also encourage families to discuss any concerns with us during this period, so we can work together to support your loved one’s emotional wellbeing.
The first month of care home living is an important time of adjustment, but with the right support, residents can quickly feel at home in their new surroundings. At Aurem Care, we’re committed to making this transition as smooth as possible for both residents and their families. From personalised care plans to engaging activities, we provide the foundation for a happy and fulfilling life in our homes. If you’d like more information on what to expect, contact us or visit one of our homes to learn more.
More Information
The role of activities in care homes cannot be overstated. At Aurem Care we understand how crucial meaningful engagement is for overall wellbeing. Take a look at our blog on this subject here
Aurem Care homes are all about people caring about people, we believe our care homes should be happy homes for loved ones.
Where older adults can forge worthwhile, meaningful relationships with our team and make new friends.
