We wanted to celebrate Grandad’s culture when he was dying

Five years ago, during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, my Grandad sadly passed away. In the time leading up to his passing, our family made the incredibly difficult decision to move him into a care home. He was living with dementia and Parkinson’s, and we knew he needed round-the-clock support that we, unfortunately, couldn’t provide on our own.

We spent months searching for the right place — not just anywhere, but a care home that could truly understand and cater to who he was as a person. Coming from an Indian background, my Grandad didn’t speak much English, and he rarely ate Western food. 

It was crucial to us that wherever he went, his cultural needs would be met. We wanted him to be in an environment where his culture, language, and lifestyle would be celebrated and upheld.

Finding a care home that met those criteria wasn’t easy. We were often met with blank stares or vague assurances when we asked about cultural dietary needs or language accommodations. 

But we didn’t give up. We knew that if my Grandad were placed somewhere that didn’t reflect his identity, he would feel isolated and lonely — which could have worsened both his emotional and physical condition.

Eventually, we found a place that felt just right. It was more than a care home — it was a community. They served Indian meals daily, spoke to him in his native dialect, and most importantly, connected him with others who shared his background. 

The home even had a small temple within its walls, offering a familiar spiritual space that brought him comfort and peace. From the food he ate to the activities he joined, everything was thoughtfully designed to reflect his heritage and make him feel truly at home. 

Though he had been reluctant to move into a care home at first, this place made the transition seamless and he spent his time there happy and content to be around familiarity and comfort. 

This is a real reminder to all people who own care homes or manage hospices - be inclusive! It could mean the world to someone who comes from a different background or culture to have their needs met and their identity seen. 

Your culture and background are a part of who you are, and no one should have to lose that when going into a care home or hospice. If anything, it should be enhanced to allow the person to feel more themselves in their most vulnerable moments.