If you have a loved one in assisted living, it can be difficult to stay in touch as life gets busy. But your Mom, Dad or Grandmother miss you! So as we look forward to 2020, we take a look at some easy new year resolutions to keep connected and have a great year together.
New Year Resolutions to Stay in Touch
“Calendar it!” is the newest productivity catch phrase. It alludes to the fact that due to our very busy lives, if we do not officially schedule time to do something, it will never get done. These days, it’s easy to set up a recurring alert on your phone to remind you an appointment is coming up – so there is no excuse!
One of the ways to ensure that your loved one has the most fulfilling and happy life is to stay connected and let them know that they are still an important part of your life. Here are some practical ideas as to how to stay in touch.
If You Live Locally
- Choose a convenient time every week, and make your visit a non-negotiable part of your schedule. Whether it is meeting Dad for lunch on Saturday, or taking Mom to have her hair done on Tuesdays – you will both find that your weekly dates will become the favorite part of your week.
- If your loved one is a sports fan, head over to watch the Sunday game with them, complete with their favorite snacks. You may want to ask the facility if you can watch the game in the common area, and invite other residents. This will make a fun weekly tradition.
- If your loved one is shut in, buy them an Alexa and teach them how to add items to a shopping list. Before you head over for your weekly visit, you can shop and bring them the items they need. If they are able to go out for excursions, plan a bi-weekly shopping trip. Simply ask them to keep a list next to their bed or chair so they don’t forget what they need.
- Bring your family member to every holiday dinner and celebration, as long as they are able. They will love the ability to get out , see people they love, and enjoy a family gathering just like they did before they moved into assisted living. Pick them up for birthday parties, graduations, family picnics – let them know they are still a vital part of the family.
If You Live Out of Town
- Just as you need to schedule a physical visit, you should schedule a phone call as well. Set up a weekly time, so that the resident can expect your call. You can teach them to use a tablet to FaceTime or Skype so they can see your face. This is also useful to really gauge how they are doing.
- On one of your visits, encourage your loved one to meet other residents. Accompany them to various facility events and help them to connect with other people in the residence. In this way, you can hopefully foster friendships for them so that they don’t feel alone.
- Send small gifts and letters on occasion. Ideas may be some of their favorite cookies, a book they would enjoy, large print puzzles, or flowers to brighten their room. Everyone loves to be surprised, and it is especially encouraging for people who live in assisted living facilities. If any children are in their life, encourage them to draw pictures and send along. Even the smallest little gifts to make a huge impact on their happiness.
Overall, your new year resolutions should include ways to keep reminding your loved one of how special they are. If they live at A Banyan Residence in Venice, you can trust us to care for them as if they were our own family. Call today for a tour of our facility ,and to ask any questions you may have. Happy New Year!
