Visiting a grandparent in a senior living community is a joyous way to honor our elders on Grandparent’s Day. But let’s face it, kids get bored easily. Luckily, we’ve got the inside scoop on how to make your visit more meaningful and fun for the grandchildren.

Should you bring children to visit a senior living community?

Bringing children to visit a grandparent in a senior living community can be incredibly rewarding for everyone involved. Many grandparents cherish the opportunity to spend time with their grandchildren and the lively energy children bring can be a cheerful addition to their day. Plus, research has shown that social interaction provides significant health benefits to older adults while improving mental health and reducing the risk of depression. Depending on the type of senior community, there may be some long-term care facilities that require prior approval to visit, so we generally recommend contacting the community directly to ask about visitation policies and hours. Keep in mind, in most independent living and assisted living communities, visitation is highly encouraged!

What are the health benefits of visiting older adults in senior living?

Planning to visit to a senior living community on Grandparent’s Day is a great idea, but visiting them several times a month is even better! That’s because visits from grandchildren can have a positive impact on the health and well-being of older adults. Interaction between grandparents and grandchildren can:

• Boost Mental Health. According to research published in the Journal of Gerontology, social activity mitigates cognitive decline in older adults and promotes emotional well-being.
• Reduce Loneliness. Loneliness can negatively impact physical and mental health, but regular visits from grandchildren can alleviate feelings of isolation, fostering a sense of belonging and purpose.
• Prevent Depression. According to research published in ScienceDirect, social engagement provides mental stimulation through communication and interaction with others, which can improve symptoms of depression.
• Encourage Physical Activity. Because of their boundless energy, children motivate their grandparents to engage in physical activity, which is beneficial for maintaining mobility.

What activities can grandchildren do with grandparents in senior living?

Depending on the age, there are countless activities that can make both you and your children’s visit to a senior living community both memorable and fun.

• Games and Puzzles. Board games, card games, trivia and puzzles are fun for people of all ages! Games and activities not only provide entertainment, but also improve senior health!

• Story Sharing. Older adults should be encouraged to share stories, memories or family history. This can be a wonderful way to bond with them, gain insight into your unique genealogy and preserve your family heritage.

• Bring Photos or Videos. Kids can bring along recent photos or videos to show their grandparents. Learning about each other’s lives can bridge the generational gap and inspire conversation.

• Arts and Crafts. Simple crafts or coloring projects can be a creative way to spend time together while keeping the children engaged and entertained.

• Outdoor Walks. If the senior living community you are visiting has a garden or outdoor area, take a stroll together. Fresh air and a change of scenery can be refreshing and healthy for both children and older adults.

• Special Meals. Share a meal together, either in the community dining room or at a local restaurant. Food is so much more than a means to better health and nutrition. It’s also a powerful way to connect with our loved ones.

Call ahead and ask the Activities Coordinator about planned activities on the day of your visit. Many senior living communities offer activities that both you and the children may be able to participate in like painting or card games.

What should I bring with me on my visit?

Like most things in life, actions speak louder than words. Consider brining along a small, thoughtful gift to brighten someone’s day. Items that can be enjoyed within the senior living community will be appreciated, such as puzzles, books, cozy blankets, fresh fruit, baked goods or a framed photo of the grandchildren. Avoid gifts that may require special care or create chores for your loved one. A small gift or keepsake from home can have a big impact and serve as a reminder that you care. For a more personal touch, ask the children to make a card or craft that can be gifted to a grandparent during your visit and they’ll have fun making it. If you are visiting a memory care community, bringing along your loved one’s favorite foods or snacks may even boost appetite in those struggling with weight loss.

How can I prepare grandchildren for a visit to a senior living community?

Be sure to prepare the children for your visit by discussing with them any physicial limitations or disabilities their grandparents may have, particularly if they have medical equipment like an oxygen tank or walker. Educate the children in advance about why their grandparents may need medical assistance. If their grandparents have Alzheimer’s disease or dementia symptoms, children may need more explanation as to why their grandparent has memory challenges. While it’s important to connect with your loved one and have fun on your visit, be mindful not to overwhelm them, especially if they have health conditions that limit their energy or focus. Children can become easily overwhelmed as well, so it helps to keep the first visit short and bring along activities to keep them busy such as a book, homework or toys. Remember, older adults may have a daily routine or special care needs that could affect the timing of your visit. For example, if you notice your loved one getting tired, you may need to cut your visit short.

Why do senior living communities encourage visits from families?

Sonata by AgeWell Solvere encourages family visits to our independent living, assisted living and memory care communities. Not only for the joy it brings, but because family visits are good for older adults. That’s because loneliness causes stress in older adults. Senior living communities overcome this issue by providing numerous outlets for social interaction—from activities to fitness classes, on-site wellness services, special events, outings and more. Every day features a full menu of fun activities for residents and their families to enjoy.

How can I get involved in a senior living community?

Even if you don’t live in a senior living community, there are various ways you and your children can get involved and have fun. Sharing a skill or donating your time can make a tremendous impact on older adults who may not have the benefit of visiting family and grandchildren. If you have something to offer, reach out to a nearby senior care community about volunteering. From reading to older adults with poor eyesight to playing the piano for entertainment to hosting a class on a skill you’ve mastered, there are countless opportunities to bring joy into the lives of older adults in senior living. Remember, family visits play a crucial role in enriching the lives of older adults. Visiting a senior living community like Sonata will give your children the opportunity to build beautiful memories and deepen connections with their grandparents. Ensuring the visit is enjoyable will make it something they will look forward to for years to come.

To learn more about the benefits of senior living, schedule an in-person visit to a Sonata community near you.