Moving into an aged care home can be an emotional decision for the person moving and their family, friends and carers. While it can be daunting, the person you care for may benefit from moving into an aged care home.
It might be that they now need high-level support with:
- moving around
- incontinence
- challenging behaviour, such as wandering
- communicating
- thinking, planning and remembering.
On this page
Even if moving to an aged care home is the best option, as a carer it can be a time of uncertainty. There will be changes in your routine, lifestyle and sense of self. You may also miss the companionship but at the same time be relieved to share the caring role.
Getting support
Everyone’s situation is different, but it’s normal for you ask yourself if it’s the right choice. You might have worries about everything from the care they’ll receive, to whether you’ve done everything you could.
It can be hard to think about your own needs. But it’s important to be realistic and decide what’s best for everyone, including you.
If you feel you need support, carers in similar situations recommend:
- talking to someone who’s a good listener
- letting others help you work through your feelings
- considering counselling services for carers.
The Carer Gateway
The Carer Gateway provides free services and support for carers, such as peer support, counselling and online skill courses. It provides information and support in person, over the phone and online.
Continuing your carer role
It’s important to remember that you can still care for the person you have been looking after once they move into an aged care home.
You will probably provide care in partnership with health professionals. This can be difficult, especially if you haven’t had much experience working with them before.
One way of thinking about working with these health professionals is to consider yourself as an important part of a team. The team can include nurses and social workers, as well as the person’s doctor and medical specialists. As a carer you’re an important member of that team, not just for the emotional and social support you give.
Tips for caring for someone in an aged care home
These tips from other carers can help you adjust to your new role:
- know who the health professionals are and write down information about them
- take someone with you to appointments to be an extra listener
- take notes
- write a list of questions so you don’t forget anything
- keep a diary of the person’s problems or symptoms
- ask for information to be written down, particularly about their diagnosis or medications
- ask if your health professional can give you any printed material or help you find more information
- make an appointment to talk about your concerns without the person you’re caring for being there
- ask the receptionist to book a longer appointment if you feel there is never enough time
- speak up for yourself and the person you care for.
For more information and tips to help you continue in your caring role, visit the Carer Gateway website.