Whether you have a loved one who just entered the next phase of their life with assisted living or have been in a community for some time, it’s always great to let them know you are always there for them. Below are 3 easy ways to make your loved one feel appreciated:
Visit!
The best way to appreciate them is by letting them know that no matter what, you will always be there for them. Visit your loved one one the next day you have off from work or in between events. Better yet, spend one whole day with them.
To take it one step further, you can surprise your loved one with flowers, a new book or a game that he or she can share with new friends at the community. Games and books are a great way to continuously have sometime to do every time you visit.
No time to visit? Call!
Companionship is crucial. Especially at this point of life, when your loved one sees that everyone is busy with their own lives and worry about being forgotten.
A quick phone call every week or month is an easy way to make their day brighter. You can talk about family traditions, culture, or maybe even old albums if they are into music. Tell them how you admired one of their skills and want to learn from them. If you have children, you can also have them speak to your loved one as well. It’s always great to hear a familiar voice!
Send Gifts
Gifts are most important on holidays where your loved one has been a part of a gift giving tradition for many years. They might feel helpless by their living situation. As a result, it’s important to continue to include your loved one in gift giving holidays such as Christmas, so that they still feel loved. If you really want to surprise them, you can get a “just because” gift, any day of the year! It’s a wonderful feeling to see the overjoyed look on a loved one’s face when they receive a gift they didn’t expect.
Do you currently have a loved one in assisted living? How do you show your appreciation? Whether it be your mother, father or member of your extended family, we’d love to hear from you! Comment below with what you’ve done recently for your loved one in assisted living.