Quality time enriches the bond shared by family members, providing a familiar face and an opportunity to keep up on family news. Visiting loved ones in a senior living community is an essential part of maintaining their mental health and well-being. Finding the right balance between too often and not often enough can be challenging.
The frequency of visits to your parent in senior living should be a balance of your loved ones’ needs and your available time. Some things to consider when creating a schedule or routine for visits are the expectations of those in care, and your own available resources. Ensuring these elements are harmonious should lead to joyful quality time together.
Creating a Routine to Visit Parents in Senior Living
Building a routine for visits should involve you, your loved one, and any other family or friends that may want to be included in the visitation schedule. Establishing a routine provides predictability, structure, and a sense of familiarity which can benefit overall well-being. Sometimes it’s as easy as agreeing to dinner once a week.
Consideration of Your Parents Needs & Preferences
The first step in determining how often to visit your loved one is to understand their wishes. Some parents may crave frequent visits as a source of companionship and support, while others may value their independence and prefer fewer visits, or visits that prioritize a specific activity. Take the time to have an open and honest conversation with your parents about how often they would like you to visit.
Respect their wishes and consider their physical and emotional benefit when deciding on a visiting schedule. If visiting in person is not viable, video and phone calls could keep you in touch and maintain your loved one’s routine.
Consider Your Availability and Resources
While you may want to see your parents as often as possible, it’s essential to consider your availability and resources. Factors such as work commitments, family responsibilities, and distance from the senior living community can impact how often you can realistically visit.
Be honest with yourself about what you can reasonably commit to. Don’t feel guilty if you can’t go as often as you’d like. Remember, quality matters more than quantity when it comes to time spent with loved ones.
Establish a Regular Schedule
Once you’ve taken your parents’ needs and your time into account, try to establish a regular visiting schedule. Consistency can provide comfort and stability for your parents, helping them feel more connected and supported.
Whether you can visit once a week, once a month, or somewhere in between, having a set schedule can help both you and your parents plan and look forward to your time together.
Stay Connected
If you’re unable to visit as often as you’d like, there are other ways to stay connected with your parents. Phone calls, video chats, and sending letters or care packages can help bridge the gap and show your parents that you’re thinking of them.
Encourage other family members and friends to stay in touch so your parents receive regular social interaction and support. Inspire your loved one to engage with the community and participate in planned activities.
Be Present During Visits
When you do visit your parents, make the most of your time together by being present and engaged. Put away distractions such as phones or laptops and focus on them. Your presence and attention can have a profound impact on your loved one’s contentment.
Engaging in activities and pastimes they enjoy, going for a walk or an outing, or simply talking and listening to them are all excellent ways to spend time together. No matter what you decide to do, being attentive and interested will ensure your time together is enjoyable.
Monitor Their Welfare
As you know your loved one best, regular visits can help you detect subtle changes. Pay attention to your loved ones’ physical and emotional well-being. Look out for any signs of decline or changes in behavior that may require attention.
Your observations can help ensure that your loved one receives the care and support they need. If you have concerns, don’t hesitate to discuss them with a community associate or your loved one’s doctor.
Supporting Your Family with Memory Care
Ultimately, the decision of how often to visit your loved one is a personal one that depends on a variety of factors. By understanding your parents’ needs, considering your own, and staying connected in meaningful ways, you can find a harmony that works for both you and your loved one.
Schedule a visit to Woodbridge Place in Phoenixville to learn more about how we can support your family.
