6 Ways to Connect with Senior Loved Ones When You Can’t Visit
Seniors’ social circles often shrink in their later years. Friends and family move away or pass on, and it becomes even more vital to sustain the relationships they still enjoy as well as to build new connections. Studies suggest a healthy social life can help seniors stave off depression and can reduce their risk for other chronic conditions like hypertension and diabetes. In essence, strong interpersonal relationships are crucial in caring for the elderly and avoiding the negative outcomes of senior isolation.
“What if I Can’t Be There?”
It’s hard to be far from people we care about, but there are many ways to reach out, connect and remind them they’re loved.
1. Phone Calls
Receiving a call from you could really brighten their day. For added support, you could set up a standing appointment for your calls, giving you both something pleasant to look forward to.
2. Letters
Why not take this opportunity to grab a pen and paper send some correspondence through the mail? Tell stories about how you and your family are making it through days in quarantine. You can create a unique album for posterity.
3. Texting
Texting is a fantastic way to send a quick “thinking about you” message or a fun picture. If a senior doesn’t actively text, it’s possible they can still receive messages. For the more tech-savvy senior, you could use WhatsApp for a variety of messaging mediums — text, group text and video chats.
4. Tech That Brings You Closer
Some devices are designed with seniors in mind, helping overcome the tech gap with ease:
- Digital picture frames like Aura or Skylight let you upload photos remotely, so your loved one always has a fresh view of your world.
- GrandPad is a senior-friendly tablet with large buttons and video chat options, made for older adults who may not be tech-savvy.
- Amazon Echo Show allows for simple voice-activated video calls and can double as a digital photo display or reminder tool.
These tools make it easier to stay in touch and also help create a stronger sense of presence from afar.
5. Virtual Hangouts with a Twist
Think beyond a standard video call. Plan an activity you can enjoy together over Zoom or FaceTime:
- Watch a movie “together” using Teleparty
- Cook a shared recipe while on video chat
- Play a multiplayer game online (yes, some seniors love Wordle and Scrabble, too!)
- Use conversation decks like Talking Point or TableTopics to spark fun and meaningful conversations
Even if you’re miles apart, these shared moments help keep your bond strong.
6. Care Packages
Show your loved one you’re thinking about them by sending a book you enjoyed or a puzzle you think they’d like. Maybe send them a few items to celebrate an upcoming holiday or house plants they could care for. If it’s something for their home, they can think of you every time they see it.
Staying Connected at The Village at Gleannloch Farms
If you’d like to find out more about how we support the social wellness of residents at The Village at Gleannloch Farms, please reach out to us. We’re passionate about promoting seniors’ holistic well-being, and we’d be happy to provide more details.
