Your mom not only gave birth to you but took care of you throughout your childhood – and possibly beyond! Is it really so much to ask that you spend some quality time with your aging mom, now that she needs you more than ever?
Many changes are brought on by aging. But no matter what age, we share a common need for a sense of purpose and connection. A loss of purpose is sometimes experienced as people age. Fortunately, something can be done about it by family members, friends, and loved ones. As your mom’s adult child, part of this responsibility falls on you. Rather than an obligation, however, consider it a privilege.
Don’t forget that, even if mom lives in a retirement community participating in activities with numerous individuals her age, she still craves your company.
A Loss of Independence
A downside of aging, experienced by numerous retirement-age individuals, is a loss of independence. Perhaps mom was always the one who drove everybody to soccer practice, the grocery store, doctor appointments, etc. But now her driving skills have diminished. Maybe dad used to run around the house fixing things, mowing the lawn, etc. But now it’s all he can do to get out of bed and care for himself. This is hard on an individual. Helping your mom to remain as independent as possible, but assisting when help is needed, is the perfect opportunity to spend quality time together.
Whenever possible, make sure you allow mom to help out. Even if she needs to be supervised during an activity, assure her that she is being useful.
Time Well Spent
Even if memory loss issues affect your loved one, it’s important to spend time with them and reminisce. They may not remember the visit the next day – but that’s not what’s important. Listen to their stories, even if you’ve heard them 100 times. Look at old pictures, even though they’re worn around the edges and corners – some figures barely discernible. Help your mom to make mental connections whenever possible. You will both enjoy yourselves and it can help keep her mind sharp.
Making Plans – Keeping Promises
If you make plans with your parents, don’t cancel if you don’t have to. If you make a promise, keep it. Though they may not be able to remember certain things, the plans you make and the promises you keep could stay in their mind above all other thoughts.
What you do during the quality time you spend with your mom doesn’t really matter that much. It doesn’t have to be expensive or extravagant. The quality time you spend – and that you care enough to do it – is what matters most.
Take a walk in the park with mom. Go to a movie. Take your mom to lunch – or just coffee (or a cocktail). Even if you don’t leave her residence, just spend time with her, and make sure that she is the center of attention. Play her favorite game. Engage in a hobby she loves. The possibilities are limitless.
Important!
Remember that tomorrow is never guaranteed. So make the most of absolutely every opportunity as it presents itself – particularly when it comes to spending time with mom.
Visit Your Mom and Spend Some Quality Time at Discovery Village At Stuart
Even if mom lives in our resort-like retirement community, the opportunities for the two of you to spend time together will still be abundant. Enjoy an activity with her in our community or – if you feel comfortable – take her to lunch, a movie, the park… It’s up to you. The important thing is that you spend quality time together as often as possible.
When you can’t be with mom, rest assured that the caring team at Discovery Village At Stuart will see to her every need.
Please contact us at 772-362-9204 to speak to a representative regarding sales and leasing. Other questions can be directed to 772-247-5400. You can also use our convenient online form to open the lines of communication.
Even better yet, schedule a tour so you can see for yourself all we have to offer.
