How to Encourage Parents to Attend Activities and Socialize After the Move to Assisted Living
It can be very sad to see your parents isolate themselves in their new assisted living apartment. Many seniors are hesitant to try new things or meet new people after a significant life change. However, socializing is critical for the mental and physical health of those living in assisted living care homes.
Your support means more than you realize. If you do it correctly, you can help your parent enjoy the vibrant community life that is available to them.
Here’s how!
Allow Them Time to Adjust to It
Moving to assisted living represents a significant change in your life. Your parents need time to adjust to their new surroundings, establish routines that make them feel safe, and become accustomed to being around other people before they begin socializing. Pushing too hard, too soon, may backfire and increase people’s resistance. Allow yourself at least two to three weeks to adjust to it. This period of observation is appropriate and healthy.
Begin With an Activity They Are Interested In
Instead of giving your parents too many options, choose one activity that aligns with their current hobbies or interests. If they enjoy playing cards at home, invite them to the weekly card game. If they enjoy gardening, recommend outdoor activities or nature programs. If you enjoy one activity, consider trying others.
Do Something Together
Your presence can give your parents the confidence they need to take that first critical step. Speak with the staff about coming in during an event such as bingo, movie night, or happy hour. Go with your parents so they know you care. After doing something together once or twice, suggest they do it on their own the next time.
Get Them in Touch With a Social Resident
Ask the activities staff about residents who are particularly friendly and welcoming. Ask if they can connect your parents with someone who shares their interests. A friendly face can sometimes make a huge difference. Many assisted living communities have residents who naturally greet and welcome visitors.
Review the Monthly Activity Calendar Together
The majority of assisted living communities publish monthly activity calendars. Sit down with your parents and go over the calendar. Instead of choosing activities for them, allow them to circle the ones that sound enjoyable. This method allows your parents to control how they interact with others.
Address the Underlying Fears or Worries
Sometimes people resist because they are afraid of something. Your parents may be concerned about not knowing anyone, having difficulty getting around, or feeling like they don’t fit in. Tell them the truth about what is holding them back. Once you’ve identified their issues, address them directly. If they are concerned about their mobility, make sure the activities are suited to their skill level.
Celebrate Small Wins
Recognize your parents’ positive effort when they attend even one event. Don’t tell them they need to do more. Positive reinforcement is much more effective than pressure in keeping people involved. Inquire about their experience using open-ended questions. What did they like? Who did they see?
Collaborate With the Staff in Charge of Activities
The activities staff at good assisted living communities understands what new residents face. They can invite your parents to specific activities or introduce them to other residents. Tell us about your parents’ interests and what might motivate them to do things. Staff members value these suggestions.
Know That There Are Numerous Ways to Socialize
It is acceptable that not every parent becomes the life of the party. Some older people prefer to spend time with one or two friends over coffee rather than in large groups. Respect your parents’ natural personalities while also encouraging them to interact with others. The goal is not to be constantly busy, but rather to avoid being alone and to keep their minds active by interacting with others in ways that make them happy.
Be Patient When Things Do Not Go Your Way
Your parents may participate in activities with a lot of energy for a few weeks and then stop. It’s normal to experience difficulties when you first move into a senior assisted living community. Gentle check-ins and new encouragement allow them to reengage without feeling pressured or judged.
Looking for an Assisted Living Community where meeting new people is both easy and enjoyable? Learn more about Bailey Pointe Assisted Living in Van Dorn today
Your parents should be able to make friends in their new home. Every month, we plan dozens of fun activities at Bailey Pointe Assisted Living at Van Dorn in Lincoln, Nebraska. These activities include board games, arts and crafts, fitness programs, and movie nights. Our welcoming community encourages residents to make new friends and have enjoyable social lives.
If you’re ready to look into assisted living where your parents can truly feel like they belong, contact Bailey Pointe Assisted Living at Van Dorn today to schedule a tour. Find out how our socializing style makes each resident feel at home.
