Old-Fashioned vs New-Fangled

Balancing the best of the past, present and future.

Many residents of care homes are not there by choice.  Their outlook can however be greatly improved through balancing the best of the past, present and future.  Between modern conveniences and familiar elements from earlier times.

As the famous quote goes, “Nostalgia ain’t what it used to be”. And yet, as we all know, sometimes the comforts of the past are well worth revisiting. For New Zealand’s Care providers, creating an environment that puts residents at ease while still factoring in medical necessities and new technologies can be a fine line to tread.

This is especially true as younger generations reach an age where they require residential care. Music and television preferences (and decor tastes) can range greatly between a resident in their 60s and their 90s. Yet the two can be neighbours – and in care for a variety of reasons.

Catering to the changing tastes of fresh arrivals can ensure a more satisfying experience for all. Providing variety for existing residents through the introduction of new media and technologies, and ensuring that newbies don’t feel as though they have walked (or been wheeled) into the past.

And while some past traditions can be updated for the modern world – some should be kept exactly as they are.  Below some considerations when balancing the best of the past, present and future.

Bring from the past.

Old-fashioned manners. Remembering your Ps and Qs never goes out of style. A sense of dignity can be lost in care homes simply by having your everyday needs looked after by others. By being addressed with respect this vital element can be retained. Some residents will prefer to be called by their surname while others will like the familiarity of their given name. If in doubt, ask about their preference.

Leave in the past.

Mattresses. They don’t make ‘em like they used to for good reason – the beds of yesteryear were uncomfortable and unhealthy. Modern mattresses with pocket spring systems and comforting memory foam or pillow top layers can help immensely for residents with aches and pains. Most modern mattresses also have anti-allergy covers.

Stay up with the beat.

When it comes to ambient music and performances by local musicians, it’s so important to keep abreast of the times. Even if those times were a few decades ago now. Just as music that once challenged society is now often found on ‘golden oldies’ stations, so too are the tastes and attitudes of our ageing population changing.  We’re not necessarily encouraging metal music played with amplifiers turned up to 11. However, many modern musicians do cater to the quieter tastes of a care home audience, while still providing them with some fresh musical food for thought.

The past is perfect.

Letter writing. Email has largely taken over from the love and care of a good letter – but that doesn’t mean letter writing is dead. Far from it. Having a good supply of stationery on hand and encouraging putting pen to paper can be an excellent way for residents to keep their minds engaged. And it’s a great way of staying in touch with friends from the past too.

It’s past being perfect.

The landline is dead. Cell phones are a far better way to communicate, even for older folk. Just being able to tuck a phone into the pocket of a wheelchair or armchair, or place it on the bedside in easy reach, means residents can easily receive those calls and messages from their families which get them through the day. Hands-free options also ensure it’s easy to relax while talking. Simple to use phones with larger keys are available for those with poor sight – and it could be best to forego the smartphone for a basic texting and calling device if technology proves too tricky.

Live in the now.

The vibrancy that comes with new materials and patterns. Think of grandma’s house and chances are, you will conjure up images of musty old furniture, floral fabrics and formica tables. But this may not actually be grandma’s taste. New, well-made furnishings tend to be healthier and more comfortable. Provided you’re not kitting out a care home in post-industrial concrete and stainless steel, most residents will appreciate practical, contemporary interior design style.

Get rid of (right now).

Tired textures and rough, synthetic fabrics. Care home residents tend to spend a lot of time sitting down, so seating should be made from soft fabrics. Easy-clean doesn’t have to mean scratchy anymore. Many new fabric technologies are made to be wipeable while remaining pleasant to the touch.

Look into the future.

Video calls are generally fantastic! Sunday dinner with the grandchildren can still happen at times when visits are not possible, thanks to this modern technology. The same can be true for resident’s religious services. Technology can be a saving grace when it comes for residents to both keep in touch and retain elements of their former lives – and it’s getting easier to use by the day. It’s important for carers to be patient and available to make these occasions happen without undue stress.

Wait for the future.

While there are many, many apps made for the elderly it’s important to remember the time investment needed to learn to use these, and the frustration ‘user-unfriendly’ technology can cause. If it’s not necessary or helpful, it might be best not to confuse things by introducing a new technology to a resident. On the flipside, if it is likely to greatly improve their lives, carers need to remember that these systems are not second nature to older people. Clear instructions and repetition may be required to help get them up and running.

With a little care and consideration, the best of modern ways and the glory of the past can be combined to create an environment that is at once comforting and engaging for care home residents. 

Good luck in your journey of balancing the best of the past, present and future!