Couples in care homes face unique challenges that can affect their physical, emotional, and social well-being. As couples age, they may experience health problems that require professional care, leading them to consider moving into a care home for residential, nursing or dementia care. This decision can be difficult for couples who have spent many years together, as it means leaving their home and potentially separating from each other.
Many Aria Care homes provide the opportunity for couples to join us together. In this article, we will explore some of the challenges when looking for care homes and how to deal with them.
Challenges for Couples
1. Separation anxiety: Couples who have spent many years together may experience separation anxiety when one partner moves into a care home before the other. This can be especially challenging if one partner requires more care than the other. The doors at Aria Care homes are always open for visitors, so if your partner joins us then you’ll always be able to see them and spend time together.
2. Loss of independence: Moving into a care home can mean a loss of independence for both partners. This can be especially difficult for couples who have always been self-sufficient and relied on each other for support.
3. Adjusting to new routines: Moving into a care home means adjusting to a new routine, which can be difficult for some couples. They may have to adapt to different meal times, activities, and schedules.
4. Health concerns: As couples age, they may experience health problems that require professional care. This can be challenging for couples who are used to taking care of each other.
Tips for Navigating Care Homes
1. Communicate: Open communication is key to navigating care homes as a couple. It’s important to discuss any concerns, fears, or worries you may have with your partner, as well as with care home staff.
2. Spend time together: It’s important for couples in care homes to spend time together. This can include participating in activities together, having meals together, and spending time in each other’s rooms.
3. Respect each other’s space: While spending time together is important, it’s also important to respect each other’s space. Couples should feel comfortable spending time apart and pursuing their own interests. We encourage residents to personalise their rooms, so each person can enjoy their own little retreat within the home.
4. Stay involved: Staying involved in the care home community can help couples feel more connected and engaged. This can include attending social events, getting involved with the varied activities in the home or just enjoying a catch up with friends.
5. Seek support: If you’re struggling with the challenges of being a couple in a care home, it’s important to seek help. The Aria Care team are always on hand to provide support and help make your time at the home as enjoyable and fulfilling as possible.
With open communication, spending time together, respecting each other’s space, staying involved, and seeking support, couples can enjoy a loving lifestyle in a care home and maintain a strong relationship.
If you’re looking for a couples care home experience where you can live with your significant other, with 50 homes across England, Scotland and Jersey, you’re bound to find an Aria Care home that meets your needs.
