Supporting New Residents and Their Families With Care, Patience, and Reassurance
Moving into a care home is a significant life change, not only for the person moving in, but for their family too. It is normal for the early days to feel emotional, uncertain, or overwhelming. At our home, we understand that settling in is a gradual process, and we take a gentle, person-centered approach from the very beginning.
Helping New Residents Feel at Home at Charlton Kings Care Home
From day one, our focus is on comfort, familiarity, and reassurance. We take time to get to know each resident as an individual, their routines, preferences, life history, and what makes them feel safe and at ease.
Residents are encouraged to personalise their room with familiar belongings such as photographs, cushions, favourite blankets, or ornaments. These small touches can make a new space feel comforting and recognisable, helping ease the transition.
Our team introduces themselves calmly and consistently, allowing trust and relationships to build naturally over time.
What the First Few Weeks in Care Really Look Like
There is no single or expected timeline for settling in. Some residents may feel comfortable within days or weeks, while others need longer to adjust. The first few weeks often involve:
- Gentle encouragement rather than pressure
- Time to observe routines and surroundings
- Emotional reassurance and familiar faces
- Quiet moments alongside opportunities to join in
We allow residents to move at their own pace, respecting their feelings and giving them the time they need to feel secure.
How We Support Residents Who Feel Unsettled
It is entirely normal for some individuals to feel unsettled, anxious, or low during the early days. This can present as withdrawal, restlessness, changes in mood, or seeking reassurance more frequently.
For residents living with dementia, the settling-in period can take longer. In some cases, it may take up to three months for a person to feel truly settled. This is not a setback or a sign that care is not right. It is a natural response to change, unfamiliar surroundings, and disrupted routines.
Our support may include:
- One-to-one time with familiar staff
- Calm reassurance and gentle conversation
- Maintaining known routines from home
- Creating quiet, low-stimulation spaces
- Close monitoring of emotional wellbeing
Support plans are reviewed regularly, and families are kept informed so that care remains consistent and reassuring.
Familiar Routines and Why They Matter
Routine provides structure, comfort, and a sense of control, particularly for older people and those living with cognitive changes. Familiar routines can significantly reduce anxiety and confusion.
We work closely with residents and families to understand:
- Preferred wake-up and bedtime routines
- Favourite meals and mealtime habits
- Personal care preferences
- Daily rhythms, rest periods, and quiet times
By maintaining familiar patterns wherever possible, residents often feel safer, more confident, and more settled in their new home.
Reassurance for Families During the Early Days of Care
We understand that families may feel worried if their loved one appears unsettled at first, especially if progress feels slow. This is a very natural reaction, and reassurance is an important part of the process.
Families are encouraged to share insights, stay involved, and ask questions at any stage. Regular communication, honest updates, and a supportive partnership help families feel reassured that their loved one is being cared for with patience, dignity, and understanding.
A Gentle Reminder
Settling into care is not about speed. It is about trust, familiarity, and time. Every person’s journey is different, and some may need longer to adjust, particularly those living with dementia. With consistency, kindness, and compassionate support, most residents gradually begin to feel safe, comfortable, and at home.
If you would like to talk to us about moving into care, or if you have questions about supporting a loved one through this transition, our team is always here to help.