5 Ways to Stay Connected and Support Your Loved One in a Care Home
You want to be involved in your loved one’s care, but life is busy, and visits aren’t always as frequent as you’d like.
But staying close doesn’t have to mean you have to be there every day – just make the time you do have count.
Not sure where to start? Here are five practical, easy ways to stay involved and support your loved one, no matter your schedule or circumstances.
How Important Is Family Involvement in Residential Care?
Family involvement is actually quite important in residential care, offering emotional support, reducing loneliness and maintaining your loved one’s sense of identity. Regular contact through visits, calls or small gestures keeps them connected and feeling reassured.
It also improves care quality, as families can advocate for their needs and preferences while strengthening relationships with staff. Even small, consistent efforts help create a sense of home, boost well-being and enhance overall happiness, which is the goal for all residents.
5 Simple Ways to Show Up and Stay Involved in Your Loved One’s Care
1. Make Visits More Than Just a Drop-In
A quick pop-in is nice, but real connection happens when you’re present and engaged. Sit down, have a proper chat and give your loved one your full attention – no checking your phone or watching the clock. Bring something to do together, like a puzzle, a book or photos to look through. Even something as simple as sharing a cup of tea and reminiscing about old times or listening to their day can turn an ordinary visit into something special.
2. Use Tech to Stay Close, Even When You’re Not There
Face-to-face visits aren’t always possible, but that doesn’t mean you can’t stay connected. Video calls, voice notes and photo messages can bring a familiar voice and a bit of everyday life into their world. They’ll likely struggle with technology, so ask the care team to help. A set routine, like a Sunday morning call or a midweek message, gives them something to look forward to and strengthens that sense of family connection.
3. Be Their Extra Set of Eyes and Ears
Care staff do an amazing job, but no one knows your loved one like you do. So keep in touch with the team, ask how things are going and speak up if something doesn’t seem quite right. Maybe they’re not eating as much, seem quieter than usual or just don’t seem themselves – raising small concerns early can make a big difference. At the same time, help them keep their independence by involving them in decisions about their own care. Feeling in control, even in small ways, can really boost their confidence.
4. Encourage Social Time and New Friendships
Living in a care home doesn’t mean social life stops. It just looks a little different. Encourage your relative to join activities, whether it’s a game of bingo, a coffee morning or just a walk around the garden with fellow residents. If they’re hesitant, join them for an event or introduce them to others. Staying social keeps their mind active, lifts their mood and settles them into their new environment.
5. Thoughtful Gestures Go a Long Way
Little surprises can mean the world. A tasty treat, a handwritten letter or a new framed photo of a special memory can brighten their day. Even small things, like bringing essential toiletries (think favourite hand cream or grooming products), a cosy new blanket or a scented candle they love, make their space feel warm and personal. And don’t forget to celebrate milestones, whether it’s a birthday, an anniversary or just a random Tuesday that calls for cake.
Keeping the Connection Strong
Supporting a loved one in a care home is about showing up in ways that matter. Whether you’re visiting in person, checking in via technology or adding little touches to make their space feel like home, staying involved ensures they feel valued and included.
Life gets busy and circumstances change, but keeping that connection strong, however you can, makes all the difference.
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