At Moving, we understand that moving to a care facility is a major event for you and your family. Perhaps you are dealing with health issues or dementia, or you see that living independently is no longer safe. In this article, you can read how to find a suitable nursing or care home, which financial matters you need to arrange, and how to use the step-by-step plan for a smooth transition. We focus on important aspects, such as the personal contribution, the Long-Term Care Act (WLZ) and the role of the Care Indication Center (Ciz), also known as the Central Care Indication Body. Moving quickly and accurately is very important in this case.
Why move to a healthcare facility?
Some people prefer to continue living at home, but moving to a care facility can be a good idea. You will then receive the care you need in one place. You may notice that living independently is becoming difficult, or that your family and caregivers have difficulty combining it with their own obligations. This is especially true for private care homes. When an elderly person lives in a care facility or moves to a care facility, admission to a nursing home can be very pleasant. When they live in a nursing home, they can receive care 24 hours a day. Unfortunately, this is not the case when they still live at home. That is why moving to a nursing home is often the right choice.
Moving to a nursing home
For example: If you have problems climbing stairs or if you fall regularly at night, you often feel safer in a care institution. You sleep more peacefully because you know that there is staff present day and night. Family members also experience less stress because they do not have to be on call all the time. Always take into account a personal contribution for a nursing home.
Nursing home moving
Some care institutions also offer all kinds of activities, such as flower arranging or joint walks. You will also meet fellow residents with similar experiences. This can give you a very pleasant experience and provide new energy. As you may have read earlier, there is a personal contribution nursing home. The amount of the personal contribution can vary and often depends on your income. Usually the family pays for this themselves.
Step-by-step plan for a successful move to a nursing home
Use our step-by-step plan to efficiently arrange the move to a nursing home. This plan helps you not to forget anything and to switch quickly. A step-by-step plan ensures that you do not forget anything. Finding a nursing home can be very difficult these days, especially when there is little equity.
1. Request an indication from the Ciz (care indication center)
You determine with your GP or district nurse what type of care is needed. The ciz care office decides whether you are entitled to the wlz. This indication is important because it gives you clarity about the care and the financing. This is something you can fall back on. For example, elderly people with a lower income can make use of this when they choose to go to a nursing home.
2. Choose a suitable nursing or care home
Consider the signature and atmosphere of the house. Does it suit you or your loved one? Also check whether the house is close to family or whether it is in a quiet neighborhood. Request a tour to get a feel for the atmosphere. An elderly person who can live independently usually wants to continue living at home. However, it may be the case that when a care home is paid for by children or other family members, a nursing home can be a good choice. Every nursing home has its own character, signature and atmosphere.
3. Look at the personal contribution and financial matters
The central administration office (cak) calculates the amount of your own contribution based on your income and assets. Sometimes it is smart to reduce your assets to avoid a higher contribution. Make sure you make financial decisions carefully. There is a lot involved for people who want to live in a nursing home. However, it is of course true that the care you receive is very nice.
4. Arrange a power of attorney or living will
If you are no longer able to act yourself, it is nice if a family member or informal caregiver can handle matters on your behalf. However, the resident (despite the power of attorney) always has the option to act themselves. This also applies to any sale or rental of your home. The living will is always taken into account in this.
5. Please note that there may be a waiting list
It can take a long time before a suitable place becomes available. Bridge the waiting time, if necessary, with home care. If someone has to move urgently, the Wlz will take action. This is of course very nice for the elderly who want to live in a nursing home. This also applies to private nursing homes. Here, assets and age are also taken into account. In a 'normal' nursing home, the amount is relatively low.
6. Make a moving checklist
Decide what items you are taking with you. Inform institutions such as the bank and health insurer of your change of address. Ask friends or a removalist for assistance on moving day. It is also something your immediate family can help with. Is there a suitable apartment available? Then start preparing.
7. Set up your new room and get to know the daily routine
Bring photos, a favorite chair, and other cherished possessions. Talk to the staff about your preferences for eating, getting up, and administering medication. This will help you maintain a sense of self-control. If you pay your own contribution, the nursing home will also help. Don't forget cable television and internet. You may have appointed a family member who can take action on your behalf to arrange these matters.
What should I pay attention to when choosing a nursing home or care home?
When selecting a care facility, pay attention to the care facility, what care they provide and how they organize it. Some nursing homes specialize in dementia care, while others are more focused on rehabilitation or chronic conditions. Also consider the environment. For example, is it close to your children, or is there a park where you can walk?
Independent living doesn't have to be difficult
Example: Suppose you like gardening and there is a care institution with a communal vegetable garden. That could make all the difference for you, because you can stay active with a hobby that you enjoy.
Another factor is the waiting list. Some nursing homes have many applications. Therefore, register in time so that you do not get into trouble if you suddenly need urgent help.
Personal contribution to a nursing home or care home
You pay a personal contribution for your stay in a nursing home or care home. The CAK calculates this. They look at your income and assets, including assets in box 3 or investments. They calculate the personal contribution and let you know how much you have to pay per month.
Prevent personal contribution
In some cases, you can reduce your own contribution by making sensible choices about your savings or investments. A financial advisor can help you with this. The maximum own contribution ensures that the costs never increase indefinitely.
Example of a short table:
| Type of income | Assets | Possible own contribution |
|---|---|---|
| Low income | Little savings | Low personal contribution |
| Middle income | Average power | Moderate contribution |
| Higher income | High power | High personal contribution |
Case study: Mr. Jansen's move to a nursing home
Mr. Jansen, 78, was always an active man. He cycled a lot and enjoyed working in his garden. Unfortunately, he became forgetful, for example due to dementia, and that hindered his independent living.
- ciz indication: Mr Jansen's GP found that he needed at least zzp4. After investigation, the ciz issued a wlz indication.
- choice of nursing home: His daughter visited three nursing homes, noting the atmosphere, activities and whether there was a garden for her father to enjoy.
- financial matters: Mr. Jansen had his own house. The daughter was given power of attorney to arrange the sale or rental when necessary.
- waiting list: It took two months before he could move to a care facility.
- relocation: The family used a checklist. They packed up and drove back and forth in one day. Returning the old house clean is also something the family can take off their hands.
- adjustment period: Mr. Jansen moves into the nursing home and spends a lot of time in the garden of the institution. He now calls it a very pleasant experience because he made new acquaintances and feels safe.
Practical tips and important matters when moving to a healthcare institution
- Start on time: Don't make hasty decisions. If you notice that you need extra care, orient yourself as soon as possible.
- Inquire with the municipality where you are going to live: Sometimes there are local regulations or adjustments that apply to you.
- Keep talking: Tell the staff or management what is important to you, such as time for a book or a short walk.
- Bring familiar items: Your own chair or photo book immediately makes your new environment more personal.
- Involve family or caregivers: They can help you with practical matters and provide emotional support.
- Consider a living will: With such a document you can avoid a lot of hassle if you are later unable to act yourself.
- Take into account care from the Wlz: The healthcare institution that provides you with care is subject to the Long-Term Care Act. Check whether this institution meets your indication.
Frequently asked questions about moving to a healthcare facility
1. Can I still take things with me if I move into a nursing home?
Yes. Often you have your own room or apartment. You can bring furniture, photos and other precious belongings, as long as it fits.
2. How long will it take before I can move?
That varies greatly. Sometimes you can get in quickly but it can also take a long time due to a waiting list. So it is better to register in time.
3. Do I have to sell my house if I move into a nursing or care home?
No, that is not mandatory. However, selling or renting out your home can affect your assets and therefore your own contribution. Find out what is beneficial for you.
4. How does the CAK calculate my own contribution?
They look at your annual income and your savings or investments. With that they determine what you pay monthly. This personal contribution partly pays for the care you receive.
5. Will my caregiver remain involved?
Yes, a family member or caregiver can continue to support you, for example by accompanying you to appointments or by doing fun activities together.
Moving is happy to help you
Moving to a care facility doesn’t have to be stressful. You can keep the process human and manageable by following a step-by-step plan, arranging important financial matters and starting early with the search for a suitable nursing home or care home. After all, it’s about your comfort and safety. At Moving, we recommend that you involve your caregiver or family members in every step. This way, you can make a choice together that you feel comfortable with and where you receive the right care.
Contact us
Do you have any questions or would you like to know more about moving to a care institution? Let us know. We are happy to help you make this drastic event go as smoothly as possible.
