At some point in our lives, many of us find ourselves having to have a difficult conversation with our parents, or other older loved ones, about whether or not they can continue to live in their own homes. Often, we notice the signs that elderly relatives need more help and might not be able to live alone before they do. It can be more obvious to someone on the outside, and is common as health starts to decline, memory suffers, and when partners pass away, leaving our loved ones lonely and alone.
The good news is, there are plenty of options now for seniors, and many are more than happy to move into a modern nursing home or assisted living community where they can make friends, get more exercise, try new hobbies,and enjoy a new lease of life. But, maintaining relationships can be difficult, especially if they are moving a little further away, or you are used to very regular contact. Here’s a look at some of the best ways that you can maintain those loving relationships as your loved one settles into their new life.
Table of Contents
View Homes Together
The first step to maintaining your relationships is to go into it together. View nursing homes and facilities together. Look around places and ask questions. McKnight Place facilities like this Eureka nursing home offer seniors plenty of healthcare support, but also a chance to enjoy their later years.
Utilize Technology
Modern technology makes it easier than ever to stay in touch with people that we might not be able to see as often as we’d like. Make sure your older loved one has a good smartphone and tablet and set them up with a Zoom account before they move into a senior living complex. Teach them how to use their tech and arrange a time to video call each other every week. Encourage other members of your family to set up regular calls too, especially younger members, like grandkids, who they will love to see.
Visit Often
Modern senior living facilities encourage family visits as much as possible. Some even have spare rooms that families can utilize for longer visits or if they are coming from far away. Use these visits to catch up, but also to spend quality time enjoying each other’s company.
Take them Out
It can feel awkward visiting your loved one in a new home, instead of the one that you are used to seeing them in. This can be especially hard if you are visiting with your children. So, try to make the most of your time. Take them out for day trips and enjoy time together out of both of your habitats. If you can, invite them to stay with you for a while now and then too.
Find Shared Hobbies
The internet makes it easier to share hobbies, even when we aren’t physically with someone. Look for things that you can do together or try watching the same TV shows or films so that you’ve always got plenty to talk about.
Your loved one moving is a big step for the whole family. But remember it’s a much bigger adjustment for them. Be there for them when they need you, and don’t worry if they enjoy newfound independence where they don’t need to rely on you so much.