Five Tips on Socializing in a New Nursing Home

 

One of the greatest challenges of the elderly living in their own home or in a residence is to socialize with friends, family or meet new people. Isolation is a very common problem at this stage of life and socializing in a residence can be a challenge that worries those who are moving.

Moreover, it is not a minor issue. A study from Stanford University concluded that lifestyle and social attitude have a greater influence on the quality of life of the elderly than what genes could determine.

One of the reasons an older adult chooses to live in a nursing home is for the opportunity to socialize with peers and engage in group activities. These programs are designed to meet personal emotional, intellectual, spiritual, social, or vocational needs.

However, when moving to a new residence, you are often burdened with emotional baggage (shyness, lack of confidence, low self-esteem, lack of social experience, etc.) that can seem like an obstacle to socializing.

As in the first day of school, the "new" feels like a stranger, or that he or she is being observed and judged, which can be scary. Therefore, in addition to remembering how we have overcame those situations in the past, it does not hurt to take into account these tips collected from the David Berkowitz Chicago Nursing Home Residents.

1- WHILE GETTING IN

Some members of your family may have accompanied you to your new residence to help you unpack and get settled. Take advantage of the company to introduce your family to every curious neighbor who comes to meet "the new one." Together with our loved ones, we tend to be friendlier and more accessible, so it is a good opportunity to break the ice, take the first step and start socializing in a residence.

2- TO EXPLORE

When the vertigo of moving is over and everything is in place, you may feel like you don't know what to do next. Let's explore! Beyond the personal space, there will be common areas and outdoor walks that it is necessary to know to socialize in a residence. These places are another opportunity to meet people. If there is a cafeteria, gym or recreation area within the residence or in a nearby area, it is time to get there.

3- INTRODUCE YOURSELF

It is normal to feel that people are looking at you. After all, you are the new kid in the neighborhood. They also went through the same thing at some point. People are curious and receptive to you coming up and introducing yourself, shaking hands, saying your name, where you come from, and whatever seems appropriate. Remember to ask the same about the other person, advises nursing home owner David Berkowitz. You can find common interests with some people from day one, and it will be the door to meeting more people. In a few days, everyone will know you by name.

4- THE FIRST CONTACT

We can all meet the first friend we had in school or college. That person remained in our hearts as someone very special. Socializing in a residence is not very different: here too there will be someone with whom you will feel comfortable for the first time, with whom you will connect and share their experiences, genuinely corresponding to your need to socialize. He will be his special person in this new stage, but feel free to continue growing and meeting people from there.

5- THE STAFF

Just as a resident will be a first and special contact, it is common for the elderly to connect in a special way with a member of the health, administration, maintenance, kitchen, driver, social worker, etc. staff.

These people are now part of your life too, you will see them every day. Having a healthy relationship with them, greeting them, asking how they are doing, treating them with respect, will be of great benefit to your social life. They are committed to your well-being, so knowing you can better meet your needs.

Every day is an opportunity for the David Berkowitz Chicago Nursing Home staff to connect with people in a profound and personal way. As the nursing home owner, for the facility's residents, David Berkowitz provides comfortable lifestyles and caring environments, with opportunities to improve wellness, fulfill lifelong wishes, and stay connected with friends and loved ones.