How to Feel at Home in Your New Residence
So just how can you go about creating good relationships in your new Aged Care home? Moving into a Residential Aged Care facility is a major life transition, and aged care providers must ensure that the process is as stress-free and smooth as possible. Feeling at home in aged care isn’t just about adjusting to a new environment—it’s about building strong relationships with staff, carers, and fellow residents. Developing these connections can lead to a better quality of life, increased trust, and a more positive aged care experience. So, how can new residents settle in comfortably and form meaningful bonds? The team at Trusted Aged Care check out some top options to make the transition smooth.
Why Creating Good Relationships in your new Aged Care home Matters
According to Nino DiSisto, CEO of Clayton Church Homes (CCH) in South Australia:
“Building close relationships in an aged care facility is crucial to enjoying your stay.”
He adds that staff and carers should also take the initiative to connect with new residents.
“Each resident has different needs. Listening, spending time with residents and their families creates understanding that carers genuinely want the best for them.”
When residents feel heard, valued, and respected, they’re more likely to trust their carers and feel comfortable receiving care. In turn, this creates a more rewarding experience for both residents and staff.
How to Settle into Your New Aged Care Home
1. Get to Know Your New Environment 🏡
Feeling at home starts with understanding how the facility operates. New residents should:
✔️ Start by learning about daily routines and schedules at the facility.
✔️ Explore community spaces and amenities to feel more at home.
✔️ Take advantage of orientation programs to meet staff and fellow residents.
The more familiar you become with your surroundings, the easier the transition will be.
2. Build Friendships with Fellow Residents 🤝
Social connections are key to feeling engaged and valued in an aged care facility. New residents can:
✔️ Make the first move by introducing yourself to neighbors and starting conversations.
✔️ Look for clubs or activity groups that align with your interests.
✔️ Get involved in communal events to connect with new people.
Engaging in social activities can reduce loneliness and help residents feel part of a community.
3. Develop Strong Bonds with Carers & Staff 💙
Care staff play an important role in daily support, so forming positive relationships with them is essential. To foster these connections, residents can:
✔️ Open up about personal stories and interests to build trust with carers.
✔️ Take the opportunity to chat with staff during free moments.
✔️ Communicate care preferences openly and honestly for a better experience.
A good, aged care facility ensures every resident feels valued—and that starts with strong communication and trust between residents and staff.
Trust & Respect: The Foundation of Quality Aged Care
Moving into aged care can sometimes feel like a loss of independence, especially when residents require assistance with personal care or daily tasks. However, receiving care should never come at the expense of dignity or respect.
The Importance of Mutual Respect in Aged Care
✔️ Feeling comfortable and respected is essential for residents to trust their carers and the care they receive.
✔️ Staff also deserve appreciation, as they provide compassionate support to multiple residents each day.
✔️ Keeping communication open fosters a positive and respectful relationship.
💡 Under the 2019 Aged Care Quality Standards, all aged care facilities are required to treat residents with dignity and respect while delivering care.
Creating good relationships in your new aged care home is vital to a comfortable stay. To foster a supportive environment, facilities should:
🔹 Check in with residents regularly – Staff can stop by for a friendly chat, check on well-being, or share a meal together.
🔹 Encourage open conversations – Residents should feel comfortable discussing any concerns or preferences.
🔹 Provide updates & newsletters – Keeping residents informed about events and changes helps them stay engaged.
When respect and trust are mutual, aged care facilities become true communities where residents feel at home.
What to Do If You Have a Complaint or Concern
No matter how good the facility, issues may arise from time to time. A good aged care provider should encourage residents and families to provide feedback—both positive and negative.
How to Raise Concerns About Aged Care Services
1️⃣ Don’t be afraid to speak up – Residents and families should feel safe reporting concerns. There should never be fear of retaliation for voicing issues.
2️⃣ Follow the feedback process – Every aged care provider must have a formal complaints procedure in place.
3️⃣ Document any ongoing issues – Keeping a record of complaint details, including dates, times, and involved staff members, can help ensure proper resolution.
💡 Reminder: Every aged care resident has the right to receive quality care in a respectful and supportive environment.
Final Thoughts: Making Aged Care Feel Like Home
A successful transition into a Residential Aged Care Facility depends on trust, communication, and meaningful relationships. When residents take the time to connect with staff and fellow residents, and when aged care facilities actively listen and support their community, everyone benefits.
Key Takeaways for a Positive Aged Care Experience
✅ Familiarize yourself with your new environment
✅ Engage socially to build connections with fellow residents
✅ Develop relationships with carers to feel more comfortable receiving care
✅ Communicate openly about needs, preferences, and concerns
✅ Know your rights – You deserve respect, dignity, and quality care
💙 A great aged care facility should feel like home. By fostering relationships, trust, and respect, residents can enjoy their golden years in comfort and security.
We believe that creating good relationships in your new aged care home can be achieved. After that, the likelihood of a comfortable stay can be greatly improved.