Growing older is beautiful. Age represents maturity, wisdom, and plenty of great stories. However, some young people don’t know the best way to communicate with seniors. Some elders in Texas have memory or cognitive impairments that make finding the right words difficult. No matter a person’s age, encouraging remarks can put a smile on their face and give them purpose. Follow these tips if you need help knowing what to say.
Use Words to Reflect the Past
Countless seniors deal with some degree of memory loss. That’s why assisted living with memory care is so beneficial. These communities use tools to help residents recall former events and look forward to the future. Family members can also help by creating conversations that rekindle memories from long ago.
Contrary to popular belief, most forms of memory loss don’t erase everything. Many seniors with dementia and Alzheimer’s still have fond memories of their younger years. Giving seniors a chance to reflect on their lives reaffirms their sense of identity. It can turn an otherwise dull day into one that really makes an impact. Watch as their eyes light up, and listen as their stories begin to flow.
Find Words to Foster a Positive Outlook
As people age, they sometimes believe their best years are behind them. Anyone living in a memory care community knows this isn’t the case. Seniors still have plenty of things to look forward to, and their loved ones can use encouraging words to create a positive outlook.
Simple phrases, such as “I love you” or “I can’t wait to see you” remind seniors how important they are to family members. However, positive words of encouragement don’t have to stop there. Sending messages with inspirational quotes can also help boost their spirits.
Choose Words to Define Goals
Goals give people a reason to wake up in the morning, but as people grow older, they sometimes put their dreams on hold. That’s why it’s vital to encourage seniors to have ambitions. Setting attainable goals helps create independence and gives assisted living residents a sense of fulfillment.
These goals don’t have to be long-term or challenging. Even asking a senior to write in their journal can make a huge difference in their day. Find something that will bring them joy, and encourage them to do it. After completing the task, have the senior share it and applaud them for their accomplishment.
Try Adding Technology
Today’s seniors didn’t grow up with the latest technology. Most of it came into existence when they were already adults. However, that doesn’t mean they shouldn’t learn to use these new devices. Internet access and mobile phones encourage seniors to communicate with the outside world.
Consider introducing a loved one to social networking. Although this type of communication doesn’t replace face-to-face interactions, it does keep seniors in the loop. This popular technology encourages socialization and prevents boredom. It’s an excellent supplement to traditional conversation.
Utilize Adaptive Words
Seniors struggling with physical or cognitive limitations often feel isolated. Rather than engaging with others, they may choose to withdraw entirely. This mindset can lead to depression. Luckily, family members can encourage their loved ones by using adaptive language.
Adaptive words can boost a person’s self-esteem tremendously. Instead of focusing on what they can’t do, rephrasing goals or expectations into smaller steps helps them visualize what they can achieve. Consider breaking up chores or setting tiny goals. Stay flexible and change requests as needed to match their current ability level.
Compassionate Memory Care for Your Loved One
Aging is not always a graceful process, but it is a privilege. Residents in a senior living community find happiness and inclusion despite personal challenges. A wheelchair or a walker shouldn’t confine an individual to a room or a sedentary lifestyle. Assisted living residents are encouraged to participate in daily activities to retain as much independence as possible in a safe, welcoming environment. In addition to thoughtful words, remaining active can help loved ones live a meaningful, fulfilled life.
Embracing Age at Riverpoint of Kerrville
Riverpoint of Kerrville is a full-service assisted living community in Kerrville, TX, providing 24-hour care to all of our residents. We specialize in comprehensive memory care in addition to offering plenty of daily activities and housekeeping services. Our residents live in solo or companion rooms, and our staff adapts services to meet any healthcare needs.
Life is full of challenges. Growing old is perhaps the most difficult challenge that a person faces in a lifetime. Some individuals remain active and productive throughout, while others struggle with health issues that limit mobility or impair memory. Regardless of a senior’s unique story, encouraging words, loving phrases, and an upbeat attitude will ensure they never feel alone. All it takes is a little effort and plenty of compassion to make a lasting impression on a loved one’s day.
