People are living longer and longer as time goes on and medicine advances. Senior citizens are not only becoming centenarians more often, but they’re also enjoying a better quality of life. Senior living communities provide individuals with the support they need, but receiving visitors can truly brighten up a resident’s day. Here are a few reasons why kids will fit right in at one of these communities.
Being Helpful
At home, it’s not uncommon for little ones to be in their own world. After going to school and doing homework, kids tend to head to their rooms and play games or get online. When they visit family in senior living communities, they get a chance to contribute something positive. Helping with technology, holding Grandma when she’s moving around, or even having a lively chat is a great way for a child to contribute. This kind of action will increase a young person’s self-esteem, as well as deepen the bond between grandparents and their grandchildren.
Gaining Perspective
According to the CDC, approximately 20% of adults 55 and over live with mental health issues. Children being exposed to a variety of people and their different health needs will help them better relate to others, both now and as they get older themselves. There’s no time like youth to understand the physical and mental health challenges many people will experience at some point in life. The earlier children learn this life lesson, the more empathetic they’ll be as adults. The time spent with the elderly will also improve how they see and treat older people in daily life.
Connecting with an Older Generation
Aside from helping out and seeing what it’s like to be around people with a variety of needs, every child can use more positive relationships with others. Don’t know anyone in a senior living community? Adopt a grandparent or volunteer. So many seniors don’t have anyone visiting them and would benefit immensely from having something to look forward to. If you’ve been wondering how well your child would react to being in senior living communities, give it a try. It could warm the hearts of those who call the place home as well as provide your child with a new bonding experience.
If you’re looking for a way to enrich your child’s life and the lives of local seniors, ask DeSoto Palms Assisted Living Community about opportunities for your family to visit residents. We’d be happy to welcome you to our community!