While your loved one likely has several friends at their assisted living home, they’ll always appreciate visits from family. Planning special activities to do with them during your visit can foster bonding and also help keep their minds active. The following offers some suggestions on how to spend your time together.

How to Enjoy Time With Your Elderly Loved One

1. Build a Scrapbook

This activity combines two hobbies that your elderly loved one might enjoy—crafts and reminiscing about old times. For your next visit to the assisted living facility, bring a blank scrapbook, crafting supplies, and a box of photographs. While you and your loved one are searching for pictures to include in the book, you can talk about the memories you have shared. This is also a way of learning more about their past and your family history. 

2. Take a Stroll Outside

A simple walk outside could do wonders for your elder’s emotional and physical health. Even if they cannot walk, a change of scenery and some fresh air can make them feel better and alert to the world around them. 

3. Spa Treatment

This could take the form of brushing your elder’s hair or giving them a hand massage. While it might seem like a small act of kindness, painting your great-grandma’s nails while talking to her about the day could lift her spirits and help her feel good about herself. 

4. Bring Their Favorites

Next time you visit your loved one, ask them about the TV programs, movies, and books that they like. This will give you ideas so you can prepare yourself for the next visit. Bring their favorite book so you can read aloud or a DVD so you can watch the show together. You might also bring them some material they can peruse on their own time.

For an assisted living facility with a welcoming environment and dedicated staff members, take your loved one to Lake View Christian Home, located in Carlsbad, NM. Their two communities—River Bend and the Villages—offer a variety of health services, such as rehab and nursing programs, to ensure that your relative is receiving the best care possible. They are dedicated to providing your elders with all the care they need to feel comfortable and independent, as demonstrated by their National Quality Award. For more information about their community, go to their website. Call 575-885-3161 to schedule a tour.