How To Create Connections and Build Relationships
When moving a loved into a senior living community, it’s normal that you’ll both have some questions and concerns about what other changes lie ahead. Will they enjoy living at their new community? How often should you visit? How can you best help your loved one adjust to their new living environment? What is the role of family members as their loved one starts this new journey?
Discover A Community Of Support
Most importantly, you and your loved one should know that the family members of residents are considered an essential part of the community. Both residents and team members at Silver Creek welcome the opportunity to get to know the families of other residents. Here are a few ways you can get involved:
- Get to know staff members and caregivers. Spending time with your loved one will certainly be your main priority, but you’ll all benefit from creating relationships with team members who work hard to take care of your loved one. Learning their names and expressing a few words of gratitude when you visit the community can make a team member’s day.
- Assist staff members in getting to know your loved one. As a family member, you can encourage your loved one to share about their family history, interests and preferences. The better they get to know your loved one, the better they are able to understand their care situation and needs.
- Become active at the community. Typically, senior living communities are very welcoming of family involvement, and Silver Creek is no exception. By taking part in community events or volunteering, you’ll meet even more of your loved one’s neighbors and caregivers. Be sure to keep up with community communications and suggest that your loved one gets involved themselves.
- Make a plan for special occasions. In addition to community-hosted events, you can also plan your own events for or with your loved one. Ideas include bringing in treats for their birthday or anniversary or reserving a private dining room or gathering space for a special meal or party. Ideally you would be providing an opportunity for your loved one to interact with other residents and staff members.
- Create a balance with regular visits and communication. Visiting with your loved one helps them feel more familiar and comfortable in their new senior living community. It can be helpful to schedule your visits during “free time” when there are no other activities going on. Keep in mind that you don’t need to be with them all the time during the transition – it’s good to give them space to adjust to their new home on their own. It can also be difficult for long-distance family members to feel involved but at Silver Creek, we’ll help facilitate the involvement of family members in any way we can.