Tips When Bringing Kids To Visit Assisted Living Communities

By: Adult Care Advisors | No Comments March 31, 2014

When kids visit the elderly in assisted living communities, it can bring a breath of fresh air for the residents. Because kids are generally full of energy, often a bit noisy, and definitely curious, it is important to appreciate the reality of the situation and have a ‘game plan’.

At Adult Care Advisors, we not only help individuals, couples and families find effective senior care, we can also help manage the questions that come up when you aren’t sure what to do. For children, it’s important that the adults model the right behavior so they feel safe and know how to act in an unfamiliar situation. After a few visits, it will be easier.

Talk with the kids ahead of time. Depending on the age of the children, parents should do their best to explain why their parent is living in a different place. It may be because of a surgery and Grandma needs some extra attention that she can’t get at home. Or it may be because Grandpa didn’t want to live alone but with his friends instead. Put it in terms kids can understand and they will go along.
Bring a present. Have the kids help you choose and bring a present. Giving helps kids feel like they are a part of something, especially when they know it will be left with Grandma or Grandpa to enjoy after they leave. Treats the senior can share with other visitors is a good idea for the social factor.
Share a memory. Bring a favorite book or photo with you to share with the elder parent and ask them to share a memory with the kids. This will help your senior feel connected with the past and trigger stories they can share.
Be open to strangers. Often a visit from young people will draw other seniors to visit, so do your best to be open to others. Again, if you model acceptance and a welcoming nature, the kids will pick up on that and act similarly. It’s a great opportunity for your senior to share the important people in their life with others.

At Adult Care Advisors, we want to help you find the right senior care, so give us a call today.

Get in touch with our team of senior care advisors today for advice on how best to visit an assisted living community successfully with children in tow.