<!–[CDATA[If your senior loved one is preparing for a move to an assisted living community, you probably have many questions. And maybe even a few worries. Will they like the community? How long will it take them to feel at home? What will your new role be in their life? It can be a big transition for the senior and for their family members.
What’s good to remember is that family members are considered part of the community, too. Both staff and residents want to get to know the family members of their new neighbors.
What can you do to build a strong relationship with community staff members?
We have a few ideas you might find helpful.
Building Bonds with Caregivers at an Assisted Living Community
1. Help staff get to know your loved one.
The relationships between caregivers and residents are vital. When team members get to know a resident well, they are better equipped to care for the senior. They are more likely to notice changes in health and well-being earlier so the appropriate interventions can take place.
By visiting regularly, especially in the early days after the move, you have an opportunity to help the staff learn more about your senior loved one. You can encourage your loved one to share their family history, talk about their work lives, and discuss recreational activities. In this way, you can help the bonds begin to build.
2. Show interest in the team members.
Don’t make the conversations all about your senior loved one. Inquire about the staff members’ families and interests. Do they have children or grandchildren? Are they a part-time student at a local university? Showing a genuine interest in staff members will help to establish connections. This can enable both of you to work together toward your loved one’s best interests.
3. Get involved in the community.
Most assisted living communities welcome family involvement. You might be able to help host a community event on a holiday or tag along during an outing to an area restaurant.
If you play piano or another musical instrument, you could volunteer your time to teach residents. The same is true for other talents like computer skills, art, and exercise. Be assured that you don’t need any special skills to get involved at the community. Spending time talking with residents is all it takes.
4. Honor and thank team members.
The team members at assisted living communities work hard to ensure residents live their best lives. These jobs can be emotionally and physically taxing. A few words of sincere gratitude when you visit the community can make a big difference in a team member’s day.
If you have questions about preparing for this transition, our Frequently Asked Questions about Moving to Assisted Living page probably has the answer. We also invite you to call us at (853) 457-8271. We’ll be happy to help!