Families whose senior parents live in a senior day care center can easily connect with their love done. Regular visits help in maintaining current connections and offer families the chance to see for themselves how their loved one is doing physically, mentally and emotionally, something that is not easy to judge from a phone conversation.
But what about those people whose seniors live out of state? Trinity Care recognizes the need for elderly people to maintain close connections with families, regardless of the distance. This is the reason we offer some solution for families that are living apart. Below are some tips which can help you stay connected with your aging parent in an out-of-state in senior facility.
Establish a Close Relationship with Staff in the Facility
If you live out of state, focus on developing a good relationship with the staff that is currently caring for your parent. Staff at Trinity Care Adult Day Care Center in Morrow Georgia wants to help in fostering and maintaining the connections between our residents and their families.
Ask the staff to communicate with you on a regular basis. Consider scheduling a weekly phone call or email exchange so you know about the news in the facility and be aware of how your parent is doing. Share information on the interest and family traditions of your parent throughout the exchanges to provide that staff the insights she may need in order to make sure that your parents get proper emotional care.
Schedule Video Calls with your Loved One
Today you can easily connect with your aging parent and have regular face time with him through platforms like Skype or Google Hangouts. While emails and phone calls are good, the benefit of face time is you can see how your parent is doing and he can see also see how you are doing. When you have kids at home, let them talk to your parent so he can feel the family connection. In case your parent is not confident with technology, ask assistance from the care staff to help your parent with the face time.
Find Changes in his Looks
Because you are quite distant from your parent, keep your eye out for changes in how he looks when you face time with him. Sudden weight loss or gain signifies a physical health issue. Older adults who often care for their look; however, no longer take an interest could have an emotional struggle such as depression or cognitive decline. In case you notice a change, try to ask your aging parent about this and when you are still worried, talk to the staff about your observations.
Recognize Essential Dates
Do not forget birthdays and anniversaries and recognize these dates with an email, card or call. Remembering essential dates let your parent know that you care, regardless of your distance.
Also, you must live up to your interactions with your loved one. You will be surprised how much he looks forward to a visit, face time or call. In case something comes up, let your parent know that you will reschedule so you don’t make him feel disappointed.
Harness His Interest and Hobbies
Look for technology which supports the interests and hobbies of your parent and try to get involved together online. For instance, when your parent likes to play Scribble, set up an online game with him. This kind of game not only has cognitive benefits but also lets you play with your parent despite your distance.
Also, books are an excellent way to stay connected. When your parent likes to read, begin a family book club. Make use of a face time application to initiate a book discussion with some members of the family and friends, regardless which state you live. In case reading is something your parent doesn’t like, he may be a sports fan. Sports can be streamed live over the web and you can watch a game with him online.
