What To Expect When Moving To A Care Home In Hastings

Making the decision to move into a care home can be emotional and challenging for both the individual and their family. However, with the right preparation and understanding, this transition can be made much smoother. If you’re considering a care home in Hastings or St Leonards-on-Sea, such as Crest House Care Home, it’s helpful to know what to expect, how to prepare, and the many benefits this move can bring.

 

We have broken the process of moving to a care home in Hastings into five parts, to help with the transition and ensure you or your loved one is prepared.

Research and Visits

 

The first step in the process is finding a care home that suits your needs or those of your loved one. Hastings and the surrounding area are home to a number of care facilities. At Crest House Care Home, prospective residents and their families are encouraged to arrange a tour, allowing them to explore the facilities, meet the staff, and experience the day-to-day atmosphere firsthand.

 

When visiting care homes in Hastings, keep an eye on important factors like:

  • Cleanliness and upkeep
  • The friendliness of the staff
  • Activity programs offered
  • The general atmosphere (Does it feel welcoming and homely?)

 

Make sure to ask questions about the type of care provided, meal options, and resident schedules. Hastings-based care homes like Crest House often offer tailored services to suit long-term care, short-term respite care, or transitional care after hospital stays.

What to Pack for Your Move

 

Once you’ve chosen the right care home, it’s time to prepare for the move. This process can be made easier with a well-thought-out packing list. It’s important to bring personal items that will make the new space feel like home. Here are some essentials to consider:

  • Comfortable clothing suited to various weather conditions
  • Toiletries and any personal care products you prefer
  • Photos, keepsakes, or small decorations to make your room more familiar
  • Favourite books, music, or hobbies to stay engaged and entertained

Many care homes, including Crest House in neighbouring town St Leonards, encourage residents to bring personal items to create a comforting, homely environment. However, there may be some limitations on space, so it’s important to discuss what can and cannot be brought before the move.

What to Expect in the First Weeks at a care home

Once you’ve moved in, it’s normal to take some time to adjust to your new surroundings. Care homes in Hastings like Crest House aim to create a welcoming environment where residents can settle in at their own pace. During the first few weeks at Crest House, you can expect:

  • A warm welcome from the staff, who will help you feel at ease
  • Assistance with daily routines as you adapt to your new schedule
  • Opportunities to join social activities, from yoga and arts and crafts to music and nostalgia sessions
  • Gradual integration into the community, with the chance to meet other residents

Remember, every resident adjusts differently. Some may feel comfortable immediately, while others might take longer to settle in. Staff at reputable care homes are trained to offer support during this transition period, ensuring residents feel safe, secure, and comfortable.

What Care Homes Provide for health & wellness

One of the biggest concerns for families when moving a loved one into a care home is the level of care and support provided. At Crest House Care Home, residents benefit from 24-hour access to skilled carers, who are on hand to provide assistance whenever it’s needed. This might include help with:

  • Personal hygiene and dressing
  • Mobility and assisted activity
  • Medication management
  • Nutritional needs, with balanced meals prepared daily

Furthermore, Crest House offers a variety of activities that promote both mental and physical wellbeing. Regular events and programs, such as yoga, music therapy, and community-led sessions, help residents stay engaged and maintain a high quality of life.

Staying Connected with the Local Community

Moving into a care home in Hastings doesn’t mean becoming isolated from the community. At Crest House, for example, residents remain actively engaged with the local area, thanks to sponsorships and partnerships with local charities and organisations. Whether it’s participating in community events or supporting projects like St Michael’s Hospice, there are plenty of opportunities for residents to stay connected to the wider Hastings community.

Following the Channel 4 documentary where young children were placed with the elderly, demonstrating impactful improvements to the care home residents’ wellbeing, Crest House have adopted similar initiatives. This means our residents and the local nursery children have time to interact and play. 

Many care homes in Hastings, including Crest House, also offer flexible visiting hours, ensuring that family and friends can remain closely involved in their loved one’s life.

A New Chapter in a care home in Hastings

While the idea of moving into a care home can feel overwhelming at first, choosing a reputable facility like Crest House Care Home can make all the difference. With compassionate care, a vibrant activity program, and a strong connection to the local community, residents can enjoy a fulfilling and supported lifestyle.

If you’re considering a care home for yourself or a loved one, take the time to explore your options, visit care homes in person, and ask as many questions as needed. By doing so, you’ll ensure a smoother transition and greater peace of mind for everyone involved.

Looking to learn more about care homes in Hastings?

Contact Crest House Care Home today to arrange a tour or speak to one of our friendly team members.