transitional living

Transitioning to a skilled nursing facility due to medical needs can be challenging for many people. With or without the threat of COVID, skilled nursing facilities are a closed door environment. Here are ten ways to cope with this difficult transition from a therapist’s perspective:

1. Acknowledge the feelings: It’s essential to acknowledge and express the emotions that come with adjusting to a new environment with less privacy, independence, and community interaction. Feelings of sadness, frustration, and fear are normal and expected.

2. Build a support system: It’s important to build a support system of family, friends, and healthcare providers who can provide emotional support and practical help.

3. Engage in meaningful activities: Participating in meaningful activities, such as hobbies, reading, or connecting with friends and family, can help maintain a sense of purpose and fulfillment.

4. Keep a positive attitude: Maintaining a positive attitude, focusing on the good in life, and finding joy in simple things can help improve the overall well-being. Distractions are often a necessary way to stay positive. As a therapist, I always ask patients if they have comfort items in their room that help them alleviate distress or isolation.

5. Take control: Find ways to take control of the situation, such as getting involved in the care plan, participating in decision-making, and advocating for oneself. If there are guardianships or power of attorneys, having a seat at the table for one’s own care makes a huge difference.

6. Learn relaxation techniques: Practicing relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing, meditation, or mindfulness, can help reduce stress and anxiety. Access to nature, even looking out the window or sitting on a patio can have healing effects on the mind and body.

7. Stay connected: Stay connected with the outside world by utilizing technology, staying informed of current events, and reaching out to friends and family. Maintaining family connections can help residents minimize feelings of burden, worthlessness, and isolation.

8. Engage in therapy: Working with a therapist can help process the emotions and challenges that come with being in a skilled nursing facility. Telehealth is making access to medical professionals easier, even in rural America.

9. Stay physically active: Engaging in physical activity, such as stretching, walking, or chair exercises, can help maintain physical health and well-being. Facilities should have exercises activities in addition to their available physical and/or occupational therapy.

10. Find meaning and purpose: Finding meaning and purpose in one’s life, such as writing a memoir, volunteering, or advocating for others in similar situations, can help bring a sense of fulfillment and purpose to the situation.

Often times, the basic reaction for new residents is to isolate in their rooms which can be detrimental to both physical and mental health. Challenging the body with movement, challenging the brain with brain games (crosswords, trivia, reading), and seeking out personal connections help alleviate symptoms of situation-related depression, anxiety, and insomnia.