3 Tips for Getting Involved in a Family Member’s Senior Living Community
After finding the right senior living community and helping someone you love get settled, it’s time to celebrate! This is a huge new step for you and your family member, and it’s time to ensure that they are ready to begin living their best lives.
While it might come with some challenges, as your family member begins this new phase of life, it’s important to recognize all the benefits that senior living offers them.
Senior living communities offer plenty of amenities, activities, clubs, and groups for residents to involve themselves. This can reignite a passion or hobby they might not have picked up in a while, keep them busy with a fun schedule, and introduce them to wonderful new friends!
There are also many ways for you to get involved in the community. Not only will this bring you closer to your family member, but it will help them as they get used to their new surroundings by having support and companionship.
The British Columbia Seniors Living Association (BCSLA) is sharing ideas for getting connected and participating in your family member’s senior living community:
1. Get to Know the Staff
Team members are there to provide support and care for residents and can offer answers to families who have questions. These are also the friendly faces that your family member will be spending time with, so it’s important for you to make these connections to feel comfortable and confident in their care.
In addition, team members can offer insight into the activities and special interest groups that a resident might want to get involved with and can help you make a schedule for your family member’s social life.
These connections can also aid you if there are any health challenges that your family member might face. Team members can offer you education resources and support, whether you want to learn more about a certain illness or need advice and guidance.
2. Check the Event Calendars
Senior living communities offer residents plenty of fun ways to meet new people and focus on their passions and hobbies! Most of these take the form of social events, holiday celebrations, and day trips.
Ask team members to keep you and your family informed about upcoming events, so you can make notes of events or trips you want to attend. Help your family member prepare for events by taking them to shop for a new outfit for a social gathering or pack for a day trip!
3. Explore the Surrounding Community Together
Many senior living communities offer transportation services to surrounding neighbourhoods, cities, and other local areas. This can be a great way for your family member to explore their area, and you can begin to familiarize yourself with the community as well. Here are some ideas:
- Encourage your relative to gather some fellow residents for a day of shopping or other errands. Not only can this get you connected with friends, but it can turn mundane errands into an event they can look forward to! You can also make it a point to plan fun outings for you and your family member.
- Lend a helping hand to the community by volunteering. Research the different charities, foundations, and other organizations in your town. Try to connect your and your loved one’s passions with any local establishments needing extra help. For example, if you both love animals, reach out to the local shelter to see if they need someone to take dogs out for daily walks or assist with other tasks. If you both love art and entertainment, look into volunteering at a museum or a theatre; they might need volunteers to serve as guides and ushers. As an added plus, you both get to see some beautiful artwork and some captivating plays!
Getting involved in a family member’s senior living community is a wonderful way to ease any challenges that might come with this transition. By getting to know team members, learning more about the surroundings, and participating in fun activities, you and your family can grow closer while enjoying all of the benefits senior living offers!
If you are interested in learning more about senior living communities in B.C., we invite you to browse our Member Directory today!
