For many seniors, adjusting to senior housing accommodations can be difficult, particularly when it comes to finding the right balance between social interaction and privacy. While some seniors might benefit greatly from the active social scene and thriving community, others may find it difficult to maintain their personal space and privacy. However, with loved ones’ support and open communication, seniors can thrive in this setting.
Understanding Personal Preferences
Every senior has different requirements and preferences when it comes to social engagement and privacy. Helping seniors understand this and be comfortable with letting their preferences be known is the first step to finding balance. This can be done by spending some time learning about the extent of social engagement loved ones find enjoyable. Then, explore how their wants and needs can be met while also working with them to express their desires to those around them.
Examine How Senior Housing Offers a Balance
How senior housing communities handle social interaction and privacy may differ. For instance, independent living typically offers more solitude along with chances to mingle at social gatherings and common areas. Talk with the housing staff about the opportunities they offer as well as their expectations.
Make Living Areas Unique
Improving a senior’s living environment to feel like home can improve their comfort and sense of privacy. One of the best ways to do this is to promote their individuality. Decorate their space with pictures, some of their favorite possessions, and other things that make them feel at home. This way, when they transition from a social situation to their senior housing residence, they’re able to feel a difference.
Encourage Interactions
While the goal is to find a healthy balance, family members might begin to worry if their loved one seems to lean more toward the privacy side of things. When this happens, go back to step one and explore how they’re feeling. Additionally, pay attention to the event calendar for their senior housing community and point out social situations they might enjoy. By encouraging a loved one to participate in community events gradually, they won’t feel as if their privacy is being restricted.
Honor Boundaries
Even while family members may worry about seniors spending too much time on their own, it’s important to ensure the encouragement doesn’t become too demanding. Instead, recognize and respect when they need time to themselves and honor their boundaries.
Promote the Use of Technology
Technology has the potential to be a useful tool for preserving relationships and protecting privacy. It’s also a great way for seniors to take the first steps to increasing their socialization. For instance, video calls and messaging apps allow seniors to stay in touch while still maintaining their privacy. As time goes on, they may enjoy joining online groups that have the same interests as they do, widening their social circle a bit.
In senior housing, striking a balance between social engagement and privacy is challenging, but with the right support, seniors can have the best of both worlds in their way and timeframe.
Sources: https://www.cedarhurstliving.com/senior-living-blog/how-seniors-can-live-independently-but-not-alone
https://silvercometvillage.com/how-social-connections-keep-seniors-healthy/
If you or an aging loved one is considering a move to a Senior Housing in Ellisville MO, please contact the caring staff at Avalon Park today at (636) 622-8136.
Avalon Park provides independent living in Cottleville, Chesterfield, O’Fallon, St. Peters, Harvester, Weldon Spring, Saint Charles, Lake St. Louis, Dardenne Prairie, Wentzville, St. Charles County, and surrounding areas.
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