According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, there are around 1.4 million seniors residing in assisted living communities across the U.S. as of 2014. Today, that number is likely higher due to the aging population. Most of these individuals have families who want to be involved in their lives while they are residents. Some friends and relatives may be unsure how to do so. Here are some ideas:
Meet the staff
Your loved one is going to interact with the staff of the senior living community on a daily basis. These are the people that say hello every day. From administrative professionals who help run the residence to nurses who provide more one-on-one personal care to every resident, your loved one is frequently in contact with the staff. It’s a good idea to get to know the employees, too. Talk with the people the senior sees all the time. Thank them for their caregiving and show you appreciate their relationship with your friend or family member.
Attend events
Senior communities host events all the time. Some are resident-only and meant to encourage socialization. Others, though, are held with the intent of getting the surrounding community involved with the residents. On family movie nights everyone may gather around popcorn to enjoy a film. During nice weather, picnic outings support getting the seniors into the outdoors for some fresh air while visiting with loved ones. Ask your senior what events are coming up that he or she would like you to attend. You can likely get a calendar of these gatherings from the front desk.
Visiting the senior
A huge part of being involved with a senior means showing up. You don’t have to host a party just to see the individual you care for. Consider starting a weekly hangout where you go to the senior community to spend time with your senior friend or family member. Take along your children some nights so they can interact with the senior as well. You may play games, enjoy TV shows you both like or just catch up. Show your senior loved one that you care by visiting him or her in person.
Volunteering
Many senior living communities would appreciate volunteers. Some require assistance on special event days like open houses or during family gatherings. You may have a particular skill that could come in handy, like writing, photography or baking. Ask a staff member at the senior community how you can get involved. You may have to speak with the activities director who can better assess your capabilities and explain how you can help. You could possibly even volunteer with the senior as a dynamic duo of assistants! This is a great way to get to know the community staff and residents at once.
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