Families and friends play an important role in the happiness and well-being of residents in assisted living facilities.
As a long-time owner of Country Home Assisted Living in Parker, Colo., I always encourage families and friends to stay involved.
I want them to visit frequently. I encourage them to take their loves ones out of our eight-bed facility in Elbert County – whether it’s for a meal, a drive, a family event or doctor’s appointment.
Some of my families come and visit at least once a week. Others take their loved ones out every week for a meal or drive. One son picks up his mother twice a week so that they can enjoy breakfast or lunch together – outings that always brighten her day.
In looking out for the well-being of my residents, I strongly suggest that family members and friends stop by to visit and check on their loved ones. While I know that I provide quality care to all of Country Home’s residents, I want input from friends and families on how their elder family member or friend is doing.
It’s not just my firsthand knowledge of how this support helps their overall attitude that makes me recommend this involvement.
Studies have shown that residents of assisted living facilities have a higher level of life satisfaction when they are visited at least once a month by family members. Visits from friends and family have also been associated with better psychological and psychosocial well-being.
So, regardless of where you place your elder family member or friend, make sure you take time to visit, get them out and about, and show them you care.
When you think about the time, care and love that they’ve given you, it should be easy to find a few extra hours a week to come and visit or take your elder friend or family member out for a meal.