A new chapter – adjusting to life in aged care

Moving into a Gold Coast aged care home is a big step, filling you with mixed emotions. Your loved one might feel a bit nervous or unsure about what lies ahead. On the one hand, there’s the comfort of knowing they’ll have professional care when you need it. On the other hand, there’s the challenge of adapting to a new environment and routine. 

But here’s the thing: adjusting to life in aged care is very much like starting a new chapter in a book. It might feel unfamiliar at first, but over time, it becomes part of your story, full of opportunities to live well, make connections, and find new purpose.

Let’s talk about some of the practical and emotional ways you can help your loved one navigate this transition.

Embrace the change – It’s a new beginning

First things first – it’s okay for your loved one to feel a little overwhelmed when they first move in. After all, it’s a change, and any change can stir up a bit of anxiety. But rather than viewing it as a loss of independence, you can help them start thinking of it as a fresh start. 

They might miss certain things, like their old home or the way things used to be, but in many ways, aged care can offer a new kind of freedom

HillView Care offers fantastic amenities, social activities, and services designed to make life great! Your loved one will have access to things they didn’t have before – beautiful gardens, a café, or even on-site beauticians and hairdressers. 

Finding their routine

A challenge when moving into aged care is adjusting to a new routine. Suddenly, things like meal times, exercise, and social activities are more structured. 

At first, this might feel restrictive, but it can actually bring a sense of comfort. Knowing that they have a regular schedule can provide predictability, and that’s something many people find reassuring.

You can help your loved one discover which activities and routines feel right for them. At HillView Care we offer everything from art classes to movie nights and community outings. Your loved one can start a new hobby or rediscover an old one – whether that’s knitting, reading, or even gardening. 

Connection and community

One of the best parts about living at one of our Gold Coast aged care homes is the opportunity to connect with others. At first, it might feel strange to be surrounded by new faces, especially if your loved one is someone who’s used to having more personal space or privacy. But over time, they’ll likely find that those very people can become friends. 

If your loved one isn’t the most outgoing person, or they’re not in the mood for socialising right away, that’s fine too. It’s about taking things one step at a time. A friendly chat in the dining room or joining a group activity can be a good way to ease into things. 

Socialising can make the transition feel less like isolation and more like an opportunity for connection.

Health and wellbeing is a priority

At HillView Care we are equipped to support your loved one in managing their health. They’ll have access to nurses, doctors, physiotherapists, and other healthcare professionals, so you don’t have to worry about their wellbeing being neglected.

Moving to aged care can be a big adjustment, and feelings of loneliness can creep in. The key is to offer continuous support, whether that’s through regular visits or phone calls. Our staff are always available to have a chat with HillView Care residents and can be someone to lean on during the transition into aged care living. 

Keeping the familiar

HillView Care isn’t a sterile, impersonal environment. While your loved one’s room may not look like their old home, they can make it their own. Encourage them to bring along some familiar items – a favourite chair, family photos, their favourite books – anything that makes the space feel like theirs.

Focus on the positives

Sure, life in aged care is different, but it’s important to focus on what your loved one can gain from the experience. They may find that they have more time for the things they enjoy, like reading or chatting with friends. They might even discover new things about themselves – hidden talents,  creativity, or a love for a new hobby. 

Over time, they might start to appreciate the little joys that come with this new chapter. A chat with a fellow resident over coffee, the excitement of a scheduled outing, or the satisfaction of ticking off a task they’ve been meaning to do. These small activities will help them feel more connected, more in control, and more content with the life they’re living.

Adjusting to life in aged care is about finding a new rhythm and embracing the opportunities it offers. It’s a chance to explore new activities, meet new people, and nurture mind and body. Yes, the transition can be tough at first, but once your loved one makes their space in this new environment, it can become a rewarding and fulfilling chapter of their life.

Contact us to learn more!