Nursing Assistant Monthly NOVEMBER 2007 Welcoming a new resident The transition to life in a long-term care setting Welcoming a New Resident

Nursing Assistant Monthly NOVEMBER 2007 Welcoming a new resident A major life change Successful transition depends on residents’: Personality Coping skills Ability to adapt to change

Nursing Assistant Monthly NOVEMBER 2007 Welcoming a new resident Residents must adapt to: Smaller living area Roommate (lack of privacy) Other residents Staff New social group Unfamiliar environment

Nursing Assistant Monthly NOVEMBER 2007 Welcoming a new resident Decline in ability to be independent Chronic illness Many losses: spouse social group home family members may not visit frequently New residents may also be coping with:

Nursing Assistant Monthly NOVEMBER 2007 Welcoming a new resident Families are in transition, too There may be feelings of: Guilt for placing loved on in nursing home Relief: fewer direct care responsibilities Misplaced anger toward staff

Nursing Assistant Monthly NOVEMBER 2007 Welcoming a new resident Rituals can comfort What is a ritual? A way of marking an important event or transition Why is ritual important? Helps bring a sense of belonging, familiarity, relief, comfort, and healing

Nursing Assistant Monthly NOVEMBER 2007 Welcoming a new resident How to use ritual in caregiving Make every interaction with the resident count. Focus on the resident to create special moments. Show you care. Example: You notice the resident likes to wear a certain necklace. Ask the resident if she would like to share its meaning with you.

Nursing Assistant Monthly NOVEMBER 2007 Welcoming a new resident More ritual examples Present a welcome kit to new residents –Ideas: stuffed animal, pillow, herbal teas, toiletries Add resident’s photo (with his/her permission) to a “residents photo tree.” Share a cup of tea to “celebrate” your new resident/caregiver relationship.

Nursing Assistant Monthly NOVEMBER 2007 Welcoming a new resident How does ritual help residents? Think of it as creating “special moments.” The possibilities are endless! New residents will get a sense of caring, and connection with their new community.