Visiting your family member in assisted living can sometimes be challenging for various reasons. But doing so shows that you care and will give you the opportunity to find out how they’re doing. Below are some tips for getting the best out of these visits.
Arrange Your Arrival at the Right Time
Generally speaking, aging adults manifest greater energy during mornings and immediately after lunch. So if possible, you’ll want to schedule a visit during these times, since eating a meal together is a great way to catch up. You’ll also want to inquire about the best times to visit them and be sure to keep your appointment otherwise they might become depressed.
Create a Relaxing Environment
Those over the age of 65 are sometimes distracted easily and may become agitated in a noisy environment. They might also find it difficult to hear what you’re saying. This is why when meeting them you’ll want to turn down the volume of televisions, radios or shut them off completely. If you’re meeting them in a public area with lots of chatter, try going into a space which is quiet and peaceful.
Know What to Say and Do in Advance
Many retirement communities have limits when it comes to the amount of time you can spend with your loved ones, so you’ll want to make it count. The best way to do this is by planning the conversation and activities you wish to do in advance. For instance, know what questions you want to ask, what family issues you want to bring up and if you’d like to a play a board game be sure to have it ready. If your loved one wants to talk, let them. And if possible, try to avoid talking about unpleasant memories unless they bring it up first.
Show Proper Affection
Many aging adults greatly desire affection, especially from their children or grandchildren, and this is something that you’ll definitely want to provide when visiting them. Holding hands, hugging and stroking their back or arm is highly recommended, but when doing so pay attention to their body language and face to ensure they’re comfortable with it.
Communicate Respectfully
Respectful communication is the key to any visit. Even if your parent or grandparent is suffering from a condition such as Alzheimer’s or dementia, you should treat them with the deference and respect that they deserve. Elders should never be spoken to or treated like children even if their mental or physical capacity has declined.
Because hearing problems are quite common in those over the age of 65, it is important to make sure they hear what you’re saying. This might require you to slightly elevate your voice or enunciate your words carefully. But you never want to yell or shout, because that will make it even harder to hear plus it might seem aggressive. Let them know that you’re happy to be in their company and be sure to shut off your smartphone before the meeting so your conversation isn’t interrupted by a call.
