Helping New Clients Adjust to LTC

The change to long term care can involve many adjustments for your client. Physically, new clients must get used to the facility and adjust to fall risk factors. Emotionally, new clients must cope with the losses they have likely experienced by the time they have moved to long term care. Socially, clients must get used to having staff and residents constantly around. Clients also should find ways to be socially active in their new setting.

FALL RISK ADJUSTMENT:

Explain fall risk and the falls prevention policy to clients. You may need to coax some clients to follow the policy.
Familiarize new clients with their environment.
Ask that clients leave doors unlocked so that fall assistance is possible.
Encourage clients to use assistive devices as ordered.
Encourage clients to stay active!

EMOTIONAL ADJUSTMENT:

Loss of Independence: Allow clients to make as many of their own decisions as possible. Keep the focus on things they are still able to do.
Loss of Loved Ones: Encourage clients to be independent, even in small ways. Ask clients to share special memories of their loved one with you.
Loss of Purpose: Help your clients find rewarding ways to pass their time. Show clients that their experience is valuable by asking for opinions on current events and issues.
Loss of Health and Youth: Encourage a healthy diet and daily exercise. Talk about current events and share funny stories.

SOCIAL ADJUSTMENT:

Encourage social engagement! This can include socializing, reminiscing, volunteering, games, and religious activities. People who stay socially active show less physical decline as they age.

THREE KEY POINTS TO REMEMBER:

Leaving their home and making major life changes can be frightening and confusing for older adults. Your goal is to make them feel as “at home” as possible.
Most people will feel some degree of anger, sadness, or stress during the adjustment period. How they deal with these feelings is the key to a smooth transition.
The first few weeks are usually the hardest for new clients. Check in often, provide gentle reassurance, offer to help, and remain available.