Visiting homebound elderly relatives can be a meaningful and rewarding experience, but it's important to keep in mind that seniors may not feel comfortable with visits they perceive as "contrived." It's important to make sure that your visit is appropriate and meaningful for them. Take a look at several strategies you can use to naturally visit elderly relatives who now spend most of their time at home and how you can continue to develop your relationship with them over time.
The Importance Of Visiting Homebound Elderly Relatives
Visiting your homebound elderly relatives can help improve their physical and mental health. Studies have shown that regular visits to seniors who must remain in their homes tend to be a positive influence on seniors' overall mood and even health. In fact, loneliness can lead to a significant decline in the overall quality of life for many seniors. Visits also give family members an opportunity to learn more about where they came from and allow them to develop a closer bond with those who are now aging.
How To Work In Visits To Homebound Elderly Relatives
If you're trying to figure out how to work in visits, there are several simple strategies that can help make these visits meaningful and enjoyable for both you and your elder relatives. Here are a few ideas:
- Make it a regular part of your routine - Try scheduling time to visit with elderly relatives once or twice per week. Even if it's only for half an hour. Let them know you're thinking about them by being present in their lives on a regular basis.
- Share memories - Nothing brings back memories like talking with someone who shares many of the same life experiences as yourself! Ask questions and share stories related to both the past and present so your relative can get connected with current events while reliving some of the joy that they felt throughout their lifetime. Consider starting a project that will allow you to document those memories for the future.
- Stop by to help with common tasks and projects around the house - Visiting homebound seniors doesn't have to be taken up entirely by conversation. Take part in everyday chores such as washing dishes, taking out the trash or even just sweeping the floor! Seniors will likely appreciate any little bit of assistance from family members during this time, especially as their mobility declines.
- Share important events and moments - Keep seniors updated on all important news within the family. This includes anniversaries, graduations or accomplishments made by loved ones surrounding them. This helps ensure that everyone feels included no matter where they live!
- Share a meal together – Whether it's something easy like pizza night at grandma's house or her favorite homemade dish prepared in her own kitchen, families coming together over meals brings people closer together in ways no technology today can ever do. Look for an excuse to get together and share a meal with a homebound elderly relative on a regular basis.
Make Sure Homebound Relatives Are Getting What They Need
When you have a senior loved one who is stuck at home, you may worry that they will not have access to the resources and support they really need. At Senior Helpers Bergen County, we provide home care services to seniors in Passaic, Clifton, Hackensack, Fort Lee, Teaneck, Fair Lawn, Paramus, and Bergen County, including regular check-ins, help with tasks around the house, and even companionship services. Contact us today to set up care for your elderly loved one.