As life continues to get in the way of us and our relationships with others, we can find it hard to connect with those we once used to hold dear. It can be especially hard to stay connected to elderly loved ones as they embark on a different life journey from us. Chronic illnesses and mobility issues can also make it difficult for them to get out and spend time with us. However, we should try regardless of the circumstances to stay in touch as it can mean the world to them by just simply picking up the phone and calling.
Phone and Video Calls
Phone calls remain the easiest way to stay connected to your loved ones. Whether you live in a different country from them or not, just a few minutes on the phone every day can go a long way toward your relationship with your loved ones. It could be wise to help get them a mobile phone if they do not already own one. Help them learn how to use them so that you can easily call them, text them, or send pictures and videos as little updates. Video calling is also a great way to see each other without having to be there physically.
Social Media
What was once thought of as a young person’s domain is rapidly changing and everyone from all different age groups are taking to social media. It is a fantastic way to not only connect with your closest family but distant family members as well as you can see videos and photos of them that they upload onto places like Facebook. It’s also a great way for your loved ones to reconnect with old friends. Social media can help them always stay in the loop, especially if you cannot contact them often.
Form a Routine
Having a routine with your loved one can help them tremendously. It could give them something to look forward to each week and leaves them knowing that they will always have a set day to see you. Whether it’s having dinner at either one of your houses or at a favorite restaurant, or meeting up weekly to go on walks, a routine such as this can help alleviate the feeling of isolation and depression.
Be Inclusive
If you cannot commit to a weekly routine, then the next best thing is to be as inclusive as possible. Whenever you can offer them some time, invite them out to hang out with you. It does not need to be a planned day outing or reservations at a restaurant, even just a couple of hours out to the supermarket or to a local coffee shop or for a walk would show them that you still have great interest in their life and still enjoy doing things with them.
Reaching out can be difficult sometimes as we don’t know where to start in rebuilding relationships. Hopefully with these tips it can help you rekindle your relationship and help you forge closer and more meaningful ties with your loved ones and show them how important they are to you. Feel free to contact us to find out what our community can do for you and your loved one.
