There are few things harder in life than making the decision to put a loved one into a nursing home. Even though you know it’s the best thing for them, it can still be incredibly hard to take them away from their home and place them in a new environment. However, as their loved one, you play a significant role in not only their transition into their new life but their experience in the nursing home altogether.
Don’t Just Visit, Make Memories
It is not only about the quantity of visits; it is about the quality. While visiting your loved one in a nursing home or assisted facility is essential for their well-being, it is necessary to plan to do more than just sit in their room. Planning activities or coming up with creative ways to spend time together will not only make your loved one feel special, but it will give them something to look forward to.
So if you are looking to brighten your loved one’s day at your next nursing home visit, consider these senior-friendly activities to keep them happy, active, and entertained.
Connect Them With Family
When it comes to family, the more, the merrier. But, unfortunately, no matter how many times you visit, life in the nursing home can get lonely. However, bringing along more family members on your next visit can reassure them that they are loved. Bringing family members helps broaden conversations and takes the pressure off of family members from visiting on their own.
Long Distance Visits
Of course, there will be some family members who can’t visit all the time due to long distances. However, thanks to technology, you can easily talk face to face with family members who live far away. Consider using facetime video chats to virtually bring your loved one and other family members together.
Visiting with Children
Children will always brighten up your loved one’s day at the nursing home. When visiting with your kids, have them bring a puzzle or a simple card game so they can interact and bond with your loved one. In addition, board games and puzzles will help keep the kids engaged during the visit.
Reminisce Over Old Photos
One of the best ways to spend time with your loved one is to reminisce over old photos. Not only will looking at old pictures strengthen your bond together, but it will provide the opportunity for your loved one to recall old memories, which could help strengthen their mind. For a creative activity involving old photos, consider making a family tree or collage together.
Listen To Music
If your loved one suffers from a disorder like Alzheimer’s, consider enjoying music together. Listening to music is not only a fantastic way to spend time together but can help boost your loved one’s mood and make them feel at home. Listening to music can help people who have Alzheimer’s reduce stress, agitation, and anxiety. In addition, playing your loved one’s favorite song can help them recall old memories and improve their cognitive ability.
Read Out Loud
Another engaging activity you can do together is reading. Reading together allows you to connect with your loved one without coming up with new conversation topics. Consider starting a novel and reading a few chapters each visit. This way, you are entertaining your loved ones while giving them something to look forward to next time you visit.
Get Some Fresh Air
Regardless of age, leading an active lifestyle is essential for you and your loved one’s overall health and well-being. Instead of staying cooped up in their room, take them outside to walk through the garden or bring them on a day trip to the park. Even if you are pushing them in a wheelchair, spending time outdoors can do wonders for their mental health.
Check Up on Your Loved One
While visiting your loved one is crucial to keep them happy and entertained, it is essential to use your visits to ensure they are getting the best care possible. Check in with the staff, ask your loved one questions, and examine the care they are receiving. If you suspect any negligence going on, it is vital to contact your trusted lawyer who specializes in these cases as soon as possible.
Show Your Loved Ones You Care
No matter what activities you do with your loved one it is important to be friendly, genuine, and loving. Remember adjusting to nursing home life is difficult so it is essential to be as friendly and understanding as possible.
Also read: How To Maintain Your Mental Health During a Pandemic
