Staying in Touch
Just because a family member or loved one has moved into an assisted living or retirement community doesn’t mean you can’t maintain the same kind of relationship you had when they were living on their own. Although it can be challenging when a friend or relative moves, there are many ways to stay connected. Here are a couple we recommend:
Family Meetings
Effective elder care depends on regular visits. Schedule a time that works for friends and family to gather with your loved one at their assisted living community. Face-to-face interaction is integral in maintaining stable emotional and mental health. If organizing group visits becomes a challenge, create a calendar for people to make routine visits.
Letters and Photos
Someone who is isolated from their familiar surroundings needs reminders that they’re loved. Dropping a postcard in the mail is a quick and easy gesture to let your relative or friend know that you’re thinking of them. Typing up letters with photo inserts is also a lovely way to stay in touch with your loved one.
“When a friend or relative moves into an assisted living or retirement community, there are many ways to stay connected.”
Written Journals and Records
It’s important to be attentive to a loved one’s health care plan. Medication administration and doctor appointments can be tricky to keep track of. That’s why many relatives and caregivers use a notebook or steno pad for recording necessary medical information.
Email, Phone, and Text Messages
Equip your loved one with a cell phone or tablet so you can easily send messages and photos. Keep in mind there’s a learning curve with older generations, and a tutorial might be needed.
Video Chats and Webcams
These days, nearly every device is compatible with Skype, FaceTime, or Google Hangouts. These are the perfect apps for one-on-one time even if you’re miles away. These technology mediums are a great way to stay updated on your loved one’s health and well-being.
Give us a call or come take a tour.
Contact Us to Find Out More
We can talk about how your family can stay in touch while getting your loved ones the care or help they need.