Moving to a new senior living residence – whether independent living, assisted living, or memory care – can be intimidating for anyone. Most seniors experience a range of feelings not unlike the first day at a new job or the first day of school. They may be excited but nervous and maybe even a little self-conscious or shy. While most people understand that there are many positive attributes to living at a senior residence, including many health benefits that come from remaining active, there’s also uncertainty and a reluctance to socialize with new people.
If your senior family member is an introvert or simply is not comfortable in new or unfamiliar situations, they might find it difficult to engage with other residents who all seem to know one another. Or they may be reluctant to sit at a table in the dining room to share meals. Whatever their hesitation, encouraging a parent to get involved in the activities and daily life of their community is essential. Read on to learn some tips to help your loved one to settle into their new lifestyle with grace and joy.
Convincing a Senior Loved One to Socialize and Engage
Here are some of the ways you can help your family member understand the significant benefit of socializing and connecting with neighbors:
Help Them to Get Excited for the Future: Life is not over just because they have a new home, but attitude is everything. Encourage your loved one to be open to trying new things, meeting new people, and experiencing new activities. There will be many events to participate in that will encourage socializing, and they might be surprised at just how much fun it is to engage with others and try something new.
Help Them to Cultivate New Friendships: It’s challenging to remain solitary at an assisted living facility, as the opportunities for socializing happen every day. Whether chatting in common areas, trying out an exercise class, meeting in the dining room, or going for a walk around the grounds, there are so many ways to meet people. Remind your parent that others may be feeling exactly the same way – and then help them to start conversations or join someone else at an otherwise empty table. If they aren’t comfortable joining activities alone, help them to meet one or two people they can become comfortable with before they set out exploring.
Help Them to Get Involved in Wellness Programs: Another benefit of living at a senior residence is having easy access to a wide range of wellness activities. Family members can look over the options first, then share one or two they think their loved one would like. Try to encourage them to try at least one new thing per week until they find that activity that is perfect for them.
Help Them to Read Over the Activities Calendar: One of the most advantageous aspects of assisted living is the wide variety of activities that are offered to residents every single day. Programs cover a broad spectrum of interests, from cards to games to book clubs, exercise classes to movies – or even excursions offsite to restaurants or to go shopping. There are sure to be several activities that your loved one will have an interest in – but if they still won’t go alone, plan on attending with them until they make friends and feel comfortable. Not only is this a great way to give them a comfort level, you get to spend more quality time with them.
If nothing seems to be working and your loved one doesn’t want to engage with others, speak with the staff. They can keep a close eye on them and encourage them – or accompany them – to events and activities.
At A Banyan Residence, we are committed to helping our residents live fulfilling and engaged lives. Call today to learn more.
