Daily Check-Ins on a One-on-One Basis
Along with those outside of their community, daily check-ins from their new family within the building can also be a huge relief and motivation. Whether it is for a one-on-one activity or just a casual visit to say hi, it gives those older adults a reason to get up, out of bed and ready for the day. According to a news report on KSAT, “Mental health experts are asking the community to be more vigilant about looking after seniors during the coronavirus pandemic. Feelings of isolation and loneliness have been magnified by the stay-home restrictions among seniors (and) these feelings could leave seniors vulnerable to abuse and exploitation.” That is why it is so important for the staff at these communities to come around and do daily check-ins with the seniors to ensure that they feel seen and, in turn, motivated to stay strong and get through the pandemic.
Offering Support Wherever Possible
We can all use a bit of support during these times. However, senior living residents and their family members are especially at-risk for mental health complications. There are a variety of support systems that were either preexisting or created specifically to assist and offer help during these difficult times. Our company has shared these resources in every way that we can including phone calls between our corporate team and the families, offering support at the community level and via our social media channels. We also have created unique and innovative ways to stay connected, such as our Energy Bus program which helps the residents and their families feel connected. In addition, we have extended internal support, such as our Spring Hills Cares Program, which features virtual support and webinars for families to feel supported.