The First Few Weeks in a Care Home — What Families Can Expect
Supporting your loved one through the transition with confidence and care.
Moving into a care home is a major life change — not just for the person arriving but for their family too. At Wardside House, we know how emotional, exciting, and sometimes uncertain these first few weeks can be. This guide will help you understand what to expect, how to support your loved one, and when to step in (or take a step back) as they settle in.
1. The First Day: Settling In
The first day is often filled with activity — tours, introductions to staff, and meeting new neighbours. Your loved one may feel overwhelmed, excited, nervous, or all of the above.
What usually happens:
A warm welcome from our care team
A review of routines and care preferences
Time to unpack and arrange their room
A meet-and-greet with fellow residents
Bring a few personal items — photos, favourite blanket, familiar toiletries — to make the new space feel like home.
Week One: Orientation & Adjustment
During the first week, your loved one will begin learning the rhythms of Wardside House. Mealtimes, activities, therapies, and daily care routines will become more familiar.
You may notice:
Fluctuations in mood
Increased curiosity about surroundings
Moments of fatigue or restlessness
What you can do:
Visit regularly (but keep visits calm and predictable)
Encourage participation in one or two activities
Check in with staff about how your loved one is adjusting
Remember — adjustment isn’t linear. Some days will feel great, some harder.
Week Two–Three: Finding Comfort and Connection
By the second and third week, many residents begin to feel more at ease.
Positive signs include:
Recognising staff and other residents
Engaging in conversations and community life
Eating and resting more comfortably
Families often report:
Better sleep patterns
Increased laughter and light-hearted moments
A clearer picture of daily life in the home
At this stage, communication between families and staff is key.
Our team will share updates on:
Personal care and wellbeing
Participation in activities
Any changes in appetite or mood
Communication: How We Keep You in the Loop
We understand how important it is for families to feel informed.
At Wardside House:
We offer regular care reviews
Staff are available for questions or updates
You’ll receive information on upcoming events and programmes
If something concerns you — no matter how small — we encourage you to reach out.
What Families Should Expect — and What We Ask
You can expect:
✔ A personalised care plan
✔ Supportive, trained staff
✔ Activities that enrich mind, body, and spirit
✔ Respect for dignity and individual preferences
We ask:
✔ Patience during the transition
✔ Open, honest communication
✔ Encouragement for your loved one to try new experiences
✔ Understanding that settling in takes time
Helping Your Loved One Feel at Home
Here are practical ways to support the transition:
1. Personalise the Room
Display pictures, favourite books, keepsakes — familiar items bring comfort.
2. Keep Conversations Positive
Ask about good moments in the day. Listen with empathy, not pressure.
3. Help Establish Routines
Participate in a morning coffee, mealtime, or activity — gently.
4. Understand Emotions
It’s normal to feel sadness, relief, guilt, and hope — sometimes all at once.