How can moves within the care home sector be made more dignified? New research offers guidance
Moving within the care home sector has a major impact on residents, their loved ones and care staff. Yet it appears that moves often take place shortly after admission; a particularly high number of moves occur in the first four months following admission. In the Netherlands, there are on average 36 relocations per 100 care home residents each year. This is according to the national RELOCARE study on dignified relocations within the care home sector, led by Professor Hilde Verbeek of Maastricht University. The study also makes recommendations on how to make these relocations more dignified. The research report was presented to Mirjam Sterk, Minister for Long-term Care, Youth and Sport, on 8 September.
Relocation
For residents, a move – whether within the same care home or to a different location – means more than just a practical relocation. After all, moves are accompanied by feelings of uncertainty, anxiety and loss, particularly at a time when people are still getting used to their new living environment. The research also shows that relatives and care staff find relocations emotionally taxing, partly due to a lack of information and the need to re-establish routines.
Continuity
The findings of the study emphasise the importance of a careful and appropriate initial move from home to a care home, with a focus on continuity in housing and care. At the same time, the study shows that moves within the care home sector are unavoidable in some situations, for example when the property is outdated and a new place to live is needed.
“Relocations within nursing home care are not merely logistical events, but significant moments that profoundly affect a person’s sense of home and belonging,” says Professor Hilde Verbeek, Professor of Long-term Care Environments for Vulnerable Older People at Maastricht University and project leader. “Appropriate care for older people requires timely, well-planned and person-centred relocations, in which expertise adapts to the resident and not the other way round.”
Moving box
For residents, the key to a successful move is whether they feel safe, at ease and involved before, during and after the move. Taking their own belongings to the new place, seeing familiar faces, clear communication and feeling at home in the new location have all been shown to be crucial. But it is particularly important to manage moves effectively, with a focus on involving residents and their loved ones, allowing space for emotions and fostering a sense of home.
Based on the research findings, the ‘Samen uit, Samen thuis’ (Moving out together, settling in together) relocation kit was developed in collaboration with staff and relatives working in the field. This provides care organisations with practical guidance on how to better support relocations, both during the preparation phase, on the day of the move and in the aftercare period.
Text: Academische Werkplaats Ouderenzorg
Photography: Harry Heuts