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When I recently asked my readers for topics they would like to see addressed on my blog, three of you had the same idea. You wanted to know tips for supporting your residents’ families during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Today I’m sharing six suggestions based on my experience as a family member, nurse, and volunteer. I would also love to hear how you support family members at your nursing home during these challenging times.
Be transparent
Early in the pandemic, many nursing homes received criticism for not being transparent about how COVID-19 affected their residents. Sadly, this resulted in anger and suspicion.
When families don’t know what’s happening, their imaginations kick in. And what they imagine is often far worse than what’s actually going on. This becomes even more problematic when visitors need to be restricted, and families can’t be there in person.
When your organization is going through a rough patch, it may be tempting to limit the information shared with families. Yet, in my experience, transparency usually leads to more trust and better understanding.
Expect powerful emotions
Admitting a loved one to a nursing home can bring on a litany of emotions: guilt, loss of control, loneliness, or fear. Toss in the pandemic, and emotions easily become magnified.
Family members may need someone to blame for their feelings, and that someone might be you. As hard as it is, try not to take it personally. Often, what they need most is someone who will listen.
That being said, as a care provider or volunteer, you are also deserving of respect. If a family member becomes verbally abusive or inappropriate toward you, be sure to contact your supervisor or the social worker for help.
Provide accurate resources
We all know there’s a plethora of inaccurate information floating around about the pandemic. Be prepared to direct family members to resources that provide accurate information about COVID-19.
Two of the best websites are the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services and your state Department of Health. These sites will also help family members understand the reasons behind the COVID-19 rules in your nursing home.
Share updates
Now more than ever, it’s crucial to keep families updated on their loved one’s condition. Yes, this becomes a challenge when everyone is super busy. However, it will save you time in the long run. You can address minor concerns before they grow into something much more significant and more time-consuming.
Also, remember to share the good news. Usually, when the phone rings and the nursing home shows up on the caller ID, it’s because something bad has happened. Their loved one fell. A medication had to be increased. The resident’s condition is suddenly deteriorating.
So, when something good happens, jot it down so you can remember to share it next time you see or talk to the family. Maybe their loved one created something beautiful in a craft activity. Perhaps they told a funny story. Or maybe you witnessed a heart-warming interaction between the resident and a nursing home pet. Share it with the family!
Suggest a support group
When a family member is struggling, it often helps to talk with other people going through the same experience. You can recommend support groups that address a variety of issues, such as specific illnesses, spouses of residents, or end-of-life care.
During the pandemic, many support groups are being held online, so participants don’t need to travel or come in physical contact with other people. These are 23 national options, and you can also find local support groups through medical facilities, churches, or social service agencies.
Make virtual visits enjoyable
During the pandemic, most nursing homes have developed programs to provide virtual visits between residents and family members. Many families are happy with simply chatting with their loved ones during these visits.
However, you’ll probably get more family involvement if you offer ideas to make virtual visits more creative. As an example, check out these suggestions for virtual visits with children.
What did I miss? Please share how your nursing home supports families during the pandemic.
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