Meaningful Visits with the Elderly

As residents of senior-living communities and skilled-nursing facilities lose the ability to communicate, families often struggle to maintain meaningful connections. Here are condensed tips for enhancing visits:

1. Utilize sensory rooms.

2. Prepare ahead, bring items of interest.

3. Engage in community and family topics.

4. Respect dietary restrictions while bringing favorite foods.

5. Share past memories with photos.

6. Highlight future visit dates on calendars.

7. Personalize rooms with familiar items.

8. Read favorite books during visits.

9. Bring flowers from home.

10. Use light aromatherapy cautiously.

11. Offer comforting hand massages.

12. Involve children in activities.

13. Share humorous moments.

14. Bring religious service recordings.

15. Keep them updated on local news.

16. Share family events and stories.

17. Read poetry together.

18. Enjoy meals together.

19. Offer grooming sessions.

20. Share photo albums or scrapbooks.

21. Take walks outdoors if possible.

22. Arrange short outings.

23. Include them in family gatherings.

24. Play games or puzzles.

25. Do crafts together.

26. Watch family videos.

27. Consider audiobooks if reading is difficult.

28. Start a joint project.

29. Assist in letter writing.

30. Fulfill their final wishes.

31. Exercise together.

32. Provide visible timekeeping aids.

33. Offer plenty of hugs.

34. Create tactile blankets.

35. Decorate according to seasons.

36. Bring seasonal items.

37. Offer fresh fruits and vegetables.

38. Cook together if facilities allow.

39. Respect facility schedules and protocols.

40. Get to know the staff for better care coordination.

Additionally, organizations like Jewish Pavilion Senior Services offer cultural support and resources for seniors. To learn more, visit JewishPavilion.org, OrlandoSeniorHelpDesk.org, or call 407-678-9363.