Leaving Home
www.FamilyCareAmerica.com
As America's population continues to age, more and more families are
confronted with the problem of elderly relatives who are no longer able
to live safely at home. But helping a loved one reach the decision to
move can be difficult. After all, giving up a home generally means the
loss of personal freedom and independence. For this reason, many people
facing this stage of life experience strong negative reactions, including:
· Anger
· Confusion
· Depression
· Disorientation
· Grief
· Idealization of the lost environment
· Illness
Regardless of the emotions attached to the move, it's important to
remember that your relative's health and well-being are the most important
factors. In addition, there are several other things to remember during
the transition:
· Feeling a sense of loss, sadness, or anger is normal, although
some individuals may feel relief at not having to maintain a home any
longer.
· After the move, your loved one will probably miss familiar
surroundings, known rituals, or people. Keeping in touch with old neighbors
and friends, as well as making new friends, can help ease this sense
of loneliness.
· Most of these negative feelings are associated with change.
They are not your fault as a caregiver. You have done nothing wrong
in looking out for a family member's safety.
· Learning as much as possible about the area is a great way
to adjust to a new environment.
· Helping your loved one remember the old living residence-by
maintaining familiar pictures or furniture-may lessen the sense of loss.
· The transition process will take time, and it requires patience
from all friends and family members who are involved.
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