Reduce Stress on Big Moves | SFU Tips

Simon Fraser University and Baptist Housing's VP of Development, Dayle Krahn, share tips for supporting residents and team members during a move - Guidelines for en masse interinstitutional relocations of long-term care homes (Battersby et al.Feb.2017).  Relocating to a new home is stressful, particularly three to six months after the move and there are ways to reduce negative effects by supporting seniors throughout the journey. 

"Three overarching messages to keep in mind throughout the relocation process emerged during the development of these guidelines:

1. Change is stressful - It is important to acknowledge and allow for the processing of changes.

2. Feeling a lack of control over where you work or live is disempowering - Creating opportunities for choice and dignity is important.

3. Effective communication is critical - throughout the relocation process, inclusive of all those impacted by the relocation." (Battersby et al.Feb.2017)

This is a useful guide for readers that want to engage and increase well-being for residents, families and team members. This research offers practical strategies like role-playing, selecting champions of change or creating individual passports for well-being. To find out more click on this resource link: Guidelines for en masse interinstitutional relocations of long-term care homes (Battersby.FEB.2017)