As our parents or grandparents age, it’s natural for us to want to provide the best care and support for them. Often, this might mean considering a senior living community where they can receive the care that they need while still remaining independent. However, the decision to move a loved one to a senior living community can be a difficult one, and many relatives worry about how they can stay connected with their loved one once they have made the move. Keep reading for some tips for family involvement in senior living communities.
Regular Visits and Phone Calls
One of the most important things that you can do to stay connected with your loved one if they are moving to senior care in Los Angeles is to visit them regularly. Even if you don’t live nearby, try to plan visits as often as possible. Many senior living communities offer private accommodation for family visits, so you can spend quality time with your loved one in a comfortable setting.
If you are not able to visit in-person as much as you’d like, be sure to call your loved one regularly. A phone call can be a great way to stay in touch and catch up on the latest news from each other’s lives. You can also use video chat applications like FaceTime or Skype to talk face-to-face even if you’re far away.
Participate in Community Events
Many senior living communities offer a range of events and activities for residents and their families to take part in. These events can be an ideal way to spend time with your loved one and get to know the other residents and staff members in the community. From movie screenings and game nights to cultural events and fitness classes, there’s always something going on in a senior living community.
By taking part in community events, you’ll not only be able to stay connected and spend time with your loved one, but you’ll also become more familiar with the community and the other people there, which can help you feel more comfortable and confident in your loved one’s care.
Join the Family Council
Many senior living communities have a family council which is made up of the relatives of residents. Joining can be a good way to get involved and stay in the know about what’s happening in the community. Plus, it provides an ideal way to voice your concerns and provide feedback to the staff.
Along with this, joining the family council also gives you the opportunity to meet other family members of residents and share experiences and resources with one another. You may also get the chance to participate in planning community events and activities that will benefit all the residents.
Moving a loved one to a senior living community can be a challenging decision, but it doesn’t mean that you can’t stay connected. By visiting regularly and getting involved in the community, you can stay connected with your loved one and continue to play a part in their care and wellbeing.