Visiting an elder family member at an assisted living facility may seem like a simple task, but there are a few tips you should be aware of to make the experience great for all parties involved. As we age, our cognitive abilities and overall functions begin to lessen, which can make something as simple as a family interaction difficult. We at Derby Assisted Living have a few tips you should follow when visiting a member at one of our facilities. Contact us today for further information!
Tip for Visiting Family Members in Assisted Living
Tip for Visiting Family Members in Assisted Living
Plan Your Visit Accordingly
It is important to plan your visit around your family member's needs. Many elders have the most energy in the morning or right at midday during the lunch hour. This will give you all the best opportunities at a fun and fulfilling time! Also, consider the length of your visit because some seniors may have certain health issues that cause their energy levels to drop, requiring some rest. Decide how the visit is going to determine the allotted time you should stay!
Be Present In The Moment
When visiting someone who is under senior care, it is important to stay present in the moment, letting them know you truly care about them. There is nothing more frustrating than trying to interact with someone who is constantly fidgeting, checking their phone, or doing anything that may indicate you are not enjoying the time with your loved one. Slow down your pace, focus on what your family member is saying, and simply have a memorable conversation!
Don’t Let Health Issues Stop You
If your family member suffers from health issues such as dementia, do not let these factors stop you from visiting them. You may feel intimidated about how to interact with individuals dealing with memory loss or other issues, but just take things slow and have patience. At the end of the day, visiting your family members may bring you and them much joy!
Include Your Loved Ones
Elders who are living in long-term care may often feel like they are no longer a part of the family. Even if your loved one no longer lives in the same environment, you should continue to include them as part of the family by bringing them to events or gatherings. Make sure to take some pictures during these events and print them out so that your loved ones can place these memories within their senior assisted living area.
We hope that these tips can help you make the most out of your visit with your loved one. If you have a senior in your life who requires an excellent assisted living facility, we at Derby Assisted Living are here for them. Learn more about our senior care by visiting us online!