Moving to a senior living community can be difficult to adjust to, especially if you are away from your loved ones and no longer see them as frequently as you would like to. Nowadays, we can leverage technology such as video calls and Zoom to regularly stay connected with our loved ones. It is important to constantly keep in touch with your loved ones in senior living communities so that they do not feel socially isolated or depressed. In today’s fast-paced and hectic lifestyle, it is important to take time off to constantly meet and interact with them. This will help your loved ones to feel much better, more socially engaged, and have a better quality of life.
Virtual Visits
If your loved ones’ senior living community is unable to accept guests or family members presently due to Covid, you should use applications like Zoom, Facebook, or Whatsapp to constantly keep in touch with them through regular video calls or texts. Simple questions such as whether they have taken their meals or sharing about your day can help in fostering deeper bonds and maintaining your relationship with your loved ones.
Just as you would normally schedule in-person visits, ensure that you plan and set aside time for regular virtual visits. You should also ensure that all your family members are free and available for the call. Although you are unable to physically touch or hug your loved ones, hearing their voices and seeing their faces is about as close as it gets and helps everyone to keep connected. You can also clarify with their caregivers or senior living community to make sure that they have the proper equipment for virtual visits such as a computer and a room with a strong wifi connection.
Care Packages
You can also consider sending them care packages occasionally that are filled with their personal belongings, favorite items, and memorable items such as photos and postcards. On a special occasion such as a birthday, holiday, or festive event, you can also consider creating packages that are centered around those themes. This helps your loved ones feel involved, cared for, and thought of.
Regular Visits
Family members should schedule regular in-person visits to their loved ones’ senior living community as they would be able to do family or recreational activities which will help with their bonding. Scheduled, regular visits provide something for your loved ones to look forward to and provide comfort on the days where you miss each other. Scheduled family visits also contribute to the structure and schedule of a resident’s life in senior living and are ideal for making sure that family members continue to stay in touch. Make sure to clarify with your loved ones’ senior living community and caregivers about their schedule and availability, as well as the various ways you and your family can continue to be involved in their lives. Ensure that you and your family can set aside time regularly, such as during the weekends to visit your loved ones and spend time with them.
