Tips for Socializing in a New Nursing Home

One of the greatest challenges for the elderly living in their own home, an assisted living facility or a nursing home, is to socialize with friends, family or meet new people. Isolation is a very common problem in this stage of life and socializing in a residence can be a challenge that worries those who are going to move. In this article, Ephraim Zagelbaum, founder and CEO of Personal Healthcare, shares some advice for new residents to break into already existing friend groups.

A recent 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 needs from an emotional, intellectual, spiritual, social, or vocational point of view.

However, when moving to a new residence, you are often loaded 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, work, university, the "new" feels like a stranger, or that he is being observed and judged at first sight, which can be scary. So, in addition to remembering how we overcame those situations of the past, it does not hurt to take into account these tips that Ephraim Zagelbaum collected from his senior care management company.

WHILE GETTING IN

Some members of your family may have accompanied you to your new residence to help you unpack and settle down. 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 of the presentations and start socializing in a residence.

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. The people you meet will greet you and they are another opportunity to make friends. If there is a cafeteria, gym or a place of recreation within the residence or in a nearby area, it is time to get there, advises Ephraim Zagelbaum.

INTRODUCE YOURSELF

It is normal to feel like 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 thing about the other person. 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.

THE FIRST CONTACT

Most of us remember 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 much different. Here too there will be someone with whom you will feel comfortable for the first time, with whom you will connect and share experiences, genuinely corresponding to your need to socialize. It will be your special person in this new stage, but feel free to continue growing and meeting people from there.

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, as 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 help them meet your needs.

THE SPACES CREATED TO SOCIALIZE IN A RESIDENCE

Common areas such as the TV or game room, the dining room, the library, or the gym often seem threatening because they are not spaces that you have in your home. They are brand new and are usually full of people at peak times. Getting there can be a challenge for someone introverted. If this is the case, remember that isolation is not healthy for older people and socializing in a residence benefits you in many ways. A common area offers many opportunities to socialize while doing something enjoyable, like watching TV, playing games, or eating. However, if you don't want to jump into relationships, sitting down to read a book in these areas is one way to save your personal space, concludes Ephraim Zagelbaum.