Add Past Interests To A New Routine
If your parent's recent move into an assisted living facility seemed to be well-received initially and now they are constantly bombarding you with phone calls stating that they want to go home, the reality of the permanence of the move may have come to fruition. It is normal for uncertainties to reveal themselves, and it can be scary to encounter a new way of doing things. Try to coax your parent into their daily routine and remain supportive of your loved one.
A New Beginning That Includes The Past
Are you making an effort to spend time with your parent on a regular basis or are you encouraging her to take part in the activities that they tend to enjoy? If your loved one has a reserved demeanor and takes pride in being as self-sufficient as possible, they may have been trying to not burden you with their inner feelings.
Instead, they may have gone into the new living quarters with a somewhat optimistic mindset, but then discovered that their new routine was so different than the old one that they weren't able to warm up to the thought of spending the rest of their life at the living center. One way to ease any feelings of loneliness or discomfort is by instilling communication and a routine visiting schedule.
For example, if you and your parent used to go out to lunch once a week, there is no reason not to continue this pattern. Most living facilities have residents who go on outings with their loved ones and this gives residents a feeling of security since activities that they are accustomed to are still a part of their schedules. If your parent is physically impaired and needs to stay at the facility, bring a homemade lunch with you and set it up for the two of you, inside of their private living quarters.
A Way To Integrate Old Loves With New Friends
Playing bingo or board games, crafting, watching movies, and listening to music are some activities that may be highlighted as part of your parent's new schedule. They won't be forced to participate in any of them, but if they have a love for a specific activity, there is no reason not to integrate it into their new routine.
You can help break the ice by participating in family gatherings that are being held at the center. A meet and greet, which involves families and residents spending time in a community room is a great way to meet others and help your parent find partners for all of the activities that they enjoy.
Reach out to an assisted living community for more ideas to help your parent adjust.