When moving into a nursing home, it's crucial to pack not just the essentials but also items that ensure comfort, convenience, and a touch of home. Selecting the right items can significantly enhance the quality of life for nursing home patients, making their space feel more personal and their daily routines more familiar and manageable.
Moving from a family home to a nursing home or other senior-living community is a massive transition, not only around one’s day-to-day activities, but also around their possessions. Downsizing will be quite challenging for some and liberating for others. The challenge is that a lot of the “stuff” your loved one might currently possess won’t be a good fit at their new nursing home or care community.
Here are a few basic examples: they might have a TV, but does it fit and function in their new room? Even though they own multiple TVs, you still might have to go buy a new one. Their old bedding, toiletries and even clothing might have to be updated and adjusted to match their room’s new dimensions and their current needs.
It’s important to help your loved one balance their possessions between the practical and emotional. First, make sure you get everything they need to live in their new home safely and comfortably. But make sure it’s a nice spot that they will be happy spending their time. Outfit it with a lot of family pictures, and some of their favorite possessions. Did your dad have a big chair he loved to sit in? If it fits in the new room, bring it with. Does your mom have a special keepsake, whether it be an antique desktop lamp, figurine, mirror, etc? Find those special objects that can make their new room feel like home.
In terms of the practical items, here are seven that are particularly necessary for anyone living in a nursing home, each contributing to a more comfortable and fulfilling stay.
1. Clothing
Since they will not be going out as often, their clothing needs are going to be different. If they are moving to a new home due to a physical or cognitive change, you might want to look into adaptive clothing. Adaptive clothing is specially designed for individuals with limited mobility and dexterity or those who require assistance with dressing. These garments often feature Velcro closures, magnetic buttons, and easy-access designs that make dressing and undressing simpler and less stressful. Examples include side-opening pants, front-closing bras, and magnetic button dress shirts. Adaptive clothing not only supports independence and dignity but also ensures comfort throughout the day. Adaptive clothing can help cut down the time it takes to get dressed and make it easier to go to the bathroom. Nursing homes report that a significant amount of resident injuries occur when dressing and toileting, so adaptive clothing is one of the most important products you can get them. If your loved one is unable to dress themselves, adaptive clothing makes it easier to receive dressing help.
2. Toiletries
Personal toiletries are essential for maintaining hygiene and a sense of normalcy. Items such as toothbrushes, toothpaste, soap, shampoo, and moisturizers tailored to personal preference or specific skin conditions are vital. Personal toiletries can help residents maintain their routines and feel more at home in the nursing facility. Make sure mom has her favorite perfume (as long as it’s allowed) and some luxurious soaps and lotions so she can feel pampered.
3. Photo Albums
Photo albums are a window to cherished memories, helping residents stay connected to their loved ones and significant life events. They serve as a valuable tool for reminiscence therapy, which can be particularly beneficial for individuals with dementia, providing comfort and sparking conversations with caregivers and fellow residents. Put up as many family photos on the wall as you can fit. Make some photo albums that are durable (we gave my grandma one made out of thick cardboard) and they’ll have wonderful memories at their fingertips.
3. Electrical Items
Small electrical items like a reading lamp, a digital clock with large numbers, a personal radio or headphones can significantly enhance a resident's comfort. These items allow for customization of the living space to meet personal needs and preferences, making the environment feel more homely and accommodating. Depending on their heating you might want to consider a small fan.
4. Beddings
Personal beddings, such as a favorite blanket or pillow, can make a nursing home bed feel more comfortable and familiar. High-quality, soft bedding can also improve sleep quality and provide a sense of security and comfort. Make sure you consider the new size of their bed as well as other factors - do they need sheets to protect against incontinence.
5. Hobby Items
Items related to hobbies or pastimes, such as knitting needles and yarn, sketchbooks, puzzles, or books, can provide a source of enjoyment and mental stimulation. They offer a creative outlet and a way to pass the time engagingly and productively. There are so many age appropriate activity and craft books, or even engaging activities they can do with the grandkids.
6. Mobility Aids
Mobility aids such as walkers, canes, or wheelchairs are crucial for residents who require assistance with mobility. These aids enhance independence, allowing residents to navigate their environment more safely and confidently.
7. Daily Living Aids
Daily living aids, like reachers and grabbers, can make a significant difference in the lives of nursing home residents. These tools help individuals perform daily tasks more independently, contributing to a sense of autonomy and reducing the frustration associated with limited mobility.
Conclusion
The transition to nursing home living can be made smoother and more comfortable by carefully selecting items that address both practical and emotional needs. From adaptive clothing to personal mementos like photo albums, these seven items are essential in creating a nurturing and personalized space. They not only facilitate daily living but also enhance the overall well-being of nursing home patients, making their environment feel more like home.
Your design team knocked it out of the park! I never thought adaptive clothes could be so fashionable.
