If your senior loved one has recently been diagnosed with dementia or become a resident of a senior living community, it is vital that you provide emotional support. Even if they really enjoy our senior living in Lincoln, NE, there are going to be moments where they really miss home or struggle with various aspects of their disease. That being said, we’re here to explain why supporting your loved one is important and some ideas that can help you do so, whether they are part of our community or elsewhere.
Why It Is Important for Seniors to Receive Emotional Support
Emotional support plays a crucial role in the overall well-being of seniors. It helps in maintaining their mental health, enhances their quality of life, and ensures they feel valued and connected to their community and loved ones. For those living with dementia, emotional support is even more significant as it helps in reducing anxiety and confusion, fostering a sense of security and belonging.
10 Ways to Emotionally Support Your Loved One
Here are eight effective ways to provide emotional support to your senior loved one:
1. Frequent Visits
Nothing matches the joy of a familiar face. Regular visits can significantly uplift the spirits of your senior loved one. Our community, conveniently located near shopping and restaurants in Lincoln, NE, offers a welcoming atmosphere for family visits. Prioritizing visits during the holiday season is especially important, as many older adults can feel a heightened sense of longing and homesickness during this time.
2. Participating in Activities Together
Engaging in activities together strengthens bonds. At CountryHouse, we have a variety of fun activities and comfortable living spaces perfect for spending quality time together. Whether it’s a game in our common area or a stroll through our beautiful secure courtyard, these shared experiences are invaluable. Plus, they are a great way to create new memories together.
3. Sending Letters and Cards
Distance doesn’t have to be a barrier. If you live far from your loved one in senior living in Lincoln, NE, sending letters or cards can bridge the gap and bring immense joy. It’s a personal touch that shows you care. Don’t forget to call or check in via video chat as well!
4. Encouraging Independence
It’s important to encourage independence in seniors, even if they are a resident of a senior living community. In fact, our community respects each resident’s ability to make choices and engage in activities at their own pace, promoting a sense of self-worth and independence. If your loved one is making the transition to a senior living community, be sure to get their insights and involve them in the decision making process.
5. Listening and Sharing
Taking the time to listen and share stories can be deeply comforting. Whether you are taking the time to visit in person or checking in via a phone call or video chat, make it a priority to listen to their stories. Remember that those living with dementia might repeat stories or lose track of what they were saying, and if so, don’t interrupt. Give them their space to work it out and stay engaged. This is an important element of communication that you don’t want to overlook.
6. Celebrating Small Victories
Every achievement, no matter how small, deserves celebration. Whether it’s participating in a new activity or remembering a fond memory, take a moment to celebrate these moments with your loved one. Doing so will help them feel cared for and emotionally supported.
7. Staying Connected with the Community
Being part of a community is vital for emotional support. We encourage family members to become part of our extended family, participating in events and getting to know the staff and other residents. Residents can also greatly benefit from being socially active within our community. Whether it’s taking a trip to a museum or enjoying a delicious meal with friends, these interactions do wonders for providing emotional support.
8. Create a Memory Book or Box
Last but not least, help them reminisce about the good old days by creating a memory book or box. This can be particularly heartwarming for residents at CountryHouse, offering a tangible connection to their cherished memories. Scrapbooking is also a lot of fun and can be a rewarding creative outlet for older adults.
9. Personalize Their Living Space
Personalizing the living space of your loved one can have a profound impact on their emotional well-being. Adding personal touches like family photos, favorite books, or even a beloved piece of furniture can make their room feel more like home. CountryHouse offers three room choices: companion, private, and deluxe private. Residents are encouraged to bring their own furniture and treasured items to make their space comfortable and familiar.
10. Engage in Reminiscence Therapy
Engaging your loved one in reminiscence therapy can be very beneficial, especially for those living with dementia. This involves discussing past experiences and life events. You can use old photos, music, or other memorabilia to help spark memories and conversations. At CountryHouse, our staff is trained to engage residents in such activities, which not only provide emotional comfort but also help in preserving cognitive functions.
The CountryHouse Difference
At our senior living in Lincoln, NE, we’re not just a senior living community; we’re a place of warmth and joy, especially for those living with dementia. Understanding the emotional needs of our residents is at the heart of what we do. With over 12 years of experience in caring for loved ones with memory loss, our community in a charming Lincoln neighborhood offers not just a living space, but a loving environment for 32 residents.
Contact Us Today!
Supporting your senior loved one emotionally is a vital part of their well-being. At CountryHouse in Lincoln, NE, we strive to create an environment of joyful living for those with dementia. We invite you to learn more about our community, tour our beautiful courtyard with its patio, grill, and putting green, and see our various room options, including those with bay windows. Come and see how we can help take excellent care of your loved one. Contact us today to learn more about senior living in Lincoln, NE, and become a part of our caring community.
