If you live far away from your senior parent it can be difficult to make sure that they aren’t lonely. But, it’s not always possible to move back home if your parent’s spouse passes away or if they don’t want to leave their home as they get older. As much as you want to be there for everything that your senior parent needs, it’s just sometimes not feasible. Companion care at home services could provide them with some of the social interaction they need.
There are some things that you can do to help your senior parent avoid being lonely, even if you are living far away.
Visiting as often as you can is a great thing to do, but you also can try things to stay connected to your senior mom or dad:
1. Schedule Regular Calls
Frequent phone or video calls help your parent feel connected to you. Set up a schedule so they know when to expect a call. Even short daily or weekly calls can make a big difference. Hearing your voice or seeing your face brings comfort and gives them something to look forward to.
You can make your regular calls more exciting and more fun by doing things like:
- Share updates and little stories from your week.
- Ask them about their day and listen.
- Use Zoom or video call so they can see you
- Put your kids on video so they can see your kids
- Go outside and do a video call so they can see where you live
2. Send Letters, Photos, and Small Gifts
Sending mail is a warm and thoughtful way to show you care. A handwritten letter, printed photos, or small gifts give them something physical to hold onto. Mail shows that you took the time to think of them, and they can look at these reminders whenever they want.
Some fun things to send to your senior mom or dad are:
- Printed photos of family events or travels.
- Write a letter about what you’ve been up to.
- Send a favorite treat or a new book they might like.
- Puzzles, books, and games
- Flowers or houseplants
- Greeting cards. Many seniors love getting greeting cards.
3. Help Them Get Online and Use Social Media
If your parent can use a phone or a tablet, show them how to use social media or messaging apps. Being able to send texts, photos, and videos instantly keeps them feeling close. Social media can also help them connect with other family members or friends, which helps build a wider support network.
To help them feel confident online you can do things like:
- Walk them through using social media or messaging apps.
- Show them how to see updates from family members.
- Have a companion or home care provider help them sign into their accounts.
4. Set Up Virtual Activities Together
Do things “together” by setting up virtual activities you can both enjoy. For example, you could both watch the same movie, read the same book, or play an online game. Then, talk about it during your next call. Shared experiences, even virtual ones, create lasting memories and give you something to bond over.
Some other activities that you can do virtually include:
- Watch the same TV show and chat about it.
- Play an online card or board game together.
- Start a small book club and discuss your thoughts.
5. Arrange for Companion Care At Home
Having companion care at home won’t be the same as having their child visit, but companion care at home can help bridge the loneliness gap and make sure that your mom or dad is getting the social interaction they need to be healthy and happy at home.
If you or an aging loved one are considering Companion Care at Home Services in Huntington NY, please contact the caring staff at Star Multi Care today. Call (631) 424-7827
Star Multi Care is a Trusted Home Care Agency serving Long Island and in NYC including Dix Hills, Floral Park, Great Neck, Huntington, Manhasset, Massapequa, Northport, Plainview, Rockville Center, Stonybrook, Suffolk County, Nassau County, and Queens County.
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