Assisted living is a wonderful asset for an aging loved one and can bring you peace of mind; however, your busy schedule can make it tough to stay in touch. As we enter the new year – with all its uncertainty – add it to your New Years Resolutions to stay connected with your parent, grandparent or spouse.
New Year Resolutions to Stay in Touch
Each year it seems the world moves faster and that we’re expected to fit more and more into every day. Consequently, our calendars and phone reminders have become essential tools for keeping to our schedules and completing all our daily tasks. Oftentimes if you forget to write down an appointment or set an alarm, it simply doesn’t get done! You can incorporate regular communication with your loved ones into your weekly schedule with just a few taps on your phone or scribbles in your planner, so there’s no reason to fall out of touch!
Family is incredibly important to most people. Of course, COVID-19 has made it even more challenging for families to stay connected. Talking or visiting regularly brings fulfillment, happiness, and something to look forward to for loved ones in assisted living homes, but that ability has been made a bit more difficult. At A Banyan Residence in the Villages, we have taken steps to ensure that you can visit your loved ones, while keeping everyone safe. So call us to discuss your New Years Resolutions and let us help!
Here are just a few additional ways to keep in touch.
When You Live Nearby
Create a weekly ritual: Set aside a specific day each week that is a non-negotiable aspect of your routine. Perhaps you and Grandpa can speak over Facetime on Wednesday evenings, or you and Mom can take a stroll around the grounds every Saturday.
Take care of their shopping for them: Some family members can’t or prefer not to leave the residence given the situation. If this is the case with your loved one, making weekly shopping trips for them is a great way to show your love. Give them a smart device such as Google Home or Alexa so they can easily add items to a shopping list that you can also access before you visit. If they are able to leave, bring them along for shopping trips.
Share your love for sports: Consider making time each Sunday to enjoy the football game – even if you have to do so over a Zoom call. (Be sure to set up munchies for your loved one!)
Don’t forget their invitation: Cabin fever can strike often for aging family members, especially after lockdowns and inability to visit in 2020. Depending on your area restrictions and comfort level, you may wish to include your loved one in family celebrations. If not possible, be sure to set up a video call for the resident to join the fun.
When You Live Far Away
Set up a call: Phone calls are even easier to plan than weekly visits. Set recurring reminders for once or twice a week, and keep it at the same time. This will help both of you to expect the call and plan for enough time to talk. Get your loved one a tablet or computer so that you can Zoom or Facetime as well! Face-to-face time can help you determine how they are doing by reading their expressions and behavior.
Send along some love: Care packages can brighten anyone’s day! Send letters or small presents to surprise your loved one. You can mail non-perishable snacks (or fresh baked goods if the gift ships quickly enough), puzzles, interesting books or magazines, or a bouquet of lovely flowers. Wall art or small pieces of decor can help personalize their room and make it seem more like home. A surprise or gift of any kind can go a long way in your loved one’s happiness.
Overall, it’s important to incorporate your family members into your schedule and your New Years Resolutions! After all ,these actions will regularly remind them of their worth. If they live at A Banyan Residence in the Villages, 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!
