You’ve selected an assisted living community. You even relocated your loved one to that community. You’ve made all the sacrifices, and you know that your loved one is happy in their new space. What makes you uncomfortable when you visit a loved one in an assisted living community? Anyone would feel uneasy seeing a loved one in an unfamiliar setting being unsure of the protocols, surroundings, and way of life.
So, what should you look out for when you visit your loved ones in an assisted living community? Check out the following tips to get the most out of each visit.
Remember the Purpose of Your Visit
You are there to offer your loved one your support and to let them know that you are still thinking about them despite any changes in their mobility, functionality, or intellect. As a family, you have decided on this course of action, and you want to support each other no matter how your living arrangements change.
Start with a Friendly Greeting
No matter what else is happening at home, keep your focus on your loved one and extend a cordial welcome to the conversation. Sit down and speak to your loved one at eye level if they are sitting. Give him or her a friendly greeting and a smile. Keep in mind the benefits of this move throughout the conversation. Choose your activities based on what you would do if you were in the position of your loved one.
Bring Things to Facilitate Conversation
You are welcome to bring items that can spark conversation and make you both feel at ease. Favorite music, family movies, vintage photos, recipe cards, a tea set, or even lunch are examples of possible gifts. Feel free to bring along well-behaved children and/or pets you may have, given the community is amenable to having young children and furry friends.
Have a Running List of Conversation Topics
There is no doubt that throughout the week, you are continually thinking of your loved one. Make a list of topics to discuss with your partner, spanning from current affairs and sports news to personal events. This helps to build the conversation.
Choose a Productive Time to Visit
Ask your loved one and the community management on the perfect time to visit. If your loved one is new to the neighborhood, you might want to avoid interfering with meal or activity hours when residents are forming important bonds. Try to be considerate when you are scheduling your visits because it will be crucial for your loved one to create a new routine.
Be Thoughtful and Respectful
It may go without saying, but now is the time to be kind and considerate to your loved one. Do not make any comments that are rude. Avoid cracking sarcastic jokes. Be kind and considerate, and treat your loved one with the utmost respect.
Make Routine Visits
It’s normal for the first few visits to be awkward. Keep showing up, if possible, on a routine basis. The visits will start to change from awkward to quality time spent together if you continue to be a trustworthy and reliable presence.
