When a loved one moves into an assisted living facility, it can be a great stress relief for both the primary caregiver and the senior themselves. Although they have moved into a facility that will help improve their overall quality of life and give them the help that they require, your loved ones still need you in their life. Some people find it difficult to stay in touch after this big move.
With this in mind, here are five tips for staying in contact and involved in your loved one’s life.
- Pencil it in. – While moving a senior into the facility itself, take the time to hang a calendar in their room to mark upcoming visits, travel plans, and other events to look forward to within the facility. At the same time, pencil it in your own planner to make sure that everyone knows when the next exciting event is taking place – and so that you don’t forget.
- Acknowledge the challenges in their lives. – Moving into an assisted living facility must be thought of as a positive one by all parties involved. While it’s best not to pretend that your loved one’s life is going to be exactly the same as it was before, it is a good idea to reinforce the positives of this life change. Even while keeping this in mind, this transition can be hard on seniors. Caregivers and family members must be sure to listen to loved ones and hear their concerns while helping them feel loved and heard. It is important to contact them frequently to reinforce yourself as a reliable supporter.
- Meet their new friends. – Another way to stay connected to your loved one is to spend time meeting other residents and their new friends. This allows you to get involved in this new living environment and help ease the transition into life in an assisted living facility. Making these connections with other residents can help you spark conversations and become further involved in the day-to-day interactions of your loved one.
- Send special presents. – If visiting your loved ones on a regular basis isn’t an option due to distance, sending letters and care packages are great ways to let seniors know that you are thinking about them while staying in communication. Something as simple as a handwritten note shows that you care. Care packages full of updated family photos, tasty treats, or other treats are a wonderful way to stay connected to your loved one.
- Take the time to chat. – Obviously, one of the best ways to stay in touch with seniors in assisted living is to simply pick up the telephone. This can even be taken a step further with a video call. Things like Skype and Facetime are spectacular ways to have a face-to-face conversation even from miles away.
To learn more about Angels Senior Living and how we can help those seeking assisted living, call (877) 480-2244 to speak with one of our Senior Living Consultants.