How to Prepare a Senior for a Care Home Move

Nursing home or home care? How to choose the best solution for seniors

Introduction

The decision about the form of care for a senior is one of the most important and emotional challenges for families.
On the one hand, there are professional nursing homes, and on the other – home care, which allows seniors to stay in a familiar environment.
In this article, we compare both solutions and provide practical tips to make the decision easier.

When is home care the right choice?

The best option when:

• the senior is partially independent and only needs support with selected activities,
• strong family bonds and staying in a familiar environment are important,
• it is possible to arrange regular visits from a caregiver or nurse.

When is a nursing home the better choice?

Recommended option when:

• the senior requires constant medical supervision,
• the family cannot provide 24/7 care,
• social integration and access to activities and rehabilitation are important.

Advantages and disadvantages – quick comparison

Home care – pros

• emotional comfort for the senior thanks to the familiar environment,
• individual care plan,
• ability to maintain daily routines.

Home care – cons

• high costs for 24-hour care,
• necessity to adapt the home,
• significant emotional burden for the family.

Nursing home – pros

• professional care 24/7,
• access to specialists and rehabilitation,
• social activities and companionship with peers.

Nursing home – cons

• need to adapt to a new environment,
• varying quality of facilities,
• emotional difficulties related to separation from home.

Practical checklist for families

Step 1: Assess the senior’s needs

• health condition and level of independence,
• need for constant medical supervision,
• the senior’s preferences – home or facility.

Step 2: Financial analysis

• costs of home care services vs. nursing home stay,
• available subsidies and benefits,
• additional expenses (home adaptations, equipment).

Step 3: Check available options

• visit at least two nursing homes,
• trial meeting with a home caregiver,
• consultation with a GP and senior organizations.

How to prepare for home care?

Home adaptation

• installation of handrails and anti-slip mats,
• medical bed, anti-bedsore mattress, ramps.

Organizing care

• setting a schedule of visits,
• ensuring an emergency contact.

Emotional support

Senior

It is worth involving the senior in the decision, explaining the reasons for change,
and emphasizing that their dignity and needs remain the priority.

Family

• division of responsibilities among family members,
• maintaining regular contact and visits.

Conclusion

There is no universal answer as to which form of care is better.
The most important thing is to adapt the decision to the senior’s health, financial possibilities, and expectations.
It is worth seeking professional advice and checking available options to ensure safety, comfort, and quality of life for your loved one.

Call to action

On opk.care you will find recommended nursing homes and practical advice for families.
Contact us to receive personalized support in choosing the best solution.