Your loved one in assisted living or memory care facilities has had to adjust to a very different way of life. Although the staff in senior residences make every effort to ensure that this new phase of life is as enjoyable, comfortable, and engaging as possible, your senior loved one may still struggle in some areas. It is important to remember that once your loved ones move into a facility, they need you more than ever – maybe not for day-to-day tasks, but for emotional and relational support. In this article, we will discuss some easy ways that you can ease their transition to assisted living and guarantee their ongoing happiness in their new home.

One of the primary concerns that residents in assisted living or memory care have is that they will be abandoned or forgotten. Therefore it is essential for family members and loved ones to make concerted efforts to remain involved. Here are some ideas as to how you can see your favorite senior while making their lives a little easier.

Run errands with them: Many assisted living facilities provide transportation to facilitate shopping or getting to doctor’s visits. Still, your senior loved one would prefer to take those trips with someone they love. You can turn a weekly errand run into a special time together or ease their angst about a doctor’s visit by accompanying them. As long as your loved one needs a ride, use that time to get together. While out with them, make sure to pick up a few of their favorite snacks or drinks to have in their room.
Plan a weekly meal: While some assisted living facilities only have resident dining rooms, others have several dining options. Regardless of their dining plans, these facilities are happy to host family members and other visitors. Pick one meal a week and share it at the residence. If you prefer, take your loved one out to a favorite restaurant – but be consistent with the day and time so that they have something to look forward to.
Have weekly zoom calls: Once you teach them the technology, the elderly love the idea of talking to children and grandchildren over a video call. These apps – such as Zoom – make it easy for family members who cannot usually visit to share smiles and love. Invite as many family members and friends as you like, and each call is likely to be unique and engaging. Your loved one will truly look forward to these weekly meetups with people who are important to them.
Attend a class with them: Assisted living facilities strive to provide an active social calendar filled with a wide variety of activities. Those seniors who have the confidence to try something new and meet new people are likely to take advantage of the many types of activities. However, many seniors feel intimidated and need some encouragement to take advantage of these events, classes, and excursions. Spend some time reviewing the social calendar with your loved one and choose an activity you can do together – then commit to accompanying them at least for the first few times. If there is a special concert, ice cream social, or family picnic, let them know you will be there with them.

A Banyan Residence is an assisted living and memory care center in The Villages. If you are looking for a professional and compassionate new home for your senior loved one, schedule a tour today.