Questions to Ask When Visiting a Senior Relative in Assisted Living

Visiting a senior relative in assisted living is far more than just showing up. These visits are invaluable opportunities to connect, show love, and ensure their overall well-being. Some questions to ask when visiting a senior relative in assisted living include:

• What was one of your favorite childhood memories? 

• What hobby or skill did you enjoy most when you were younger?

• If you could go on vacation anywhere, where would it be? 

• If you could have dinner with any famous person, alive or not, who would it be? 

With some preparation, you can transform your visits into cherished interactions that brighten your loved one’s spirits and leave you both feeling closer. It’s also nice to consider activities that you can do with your loved one in their community. For example, you could go for a nice walk while you chat, or help your loved one tend to plants or flowers in a community garden.  

Why Well-Prepared Visits Truly Matter   

The moments when seniors get to visit with loved ones can be the highlight of their week. Beyond a chance to catch up, these chats can reduce feelings of loneliness and foster a sense of belonging. Feeling included and valued can help lift a senior’s spirits and lead to increased joy in their daily lives. 

Questions to Ask During Your Visit  

Creating memorable conversations begins with good questions. Avoid falling into the routine of small talk about the weather or the latest TV shows.

Instead, choose open-ended questions that encourage your senior relative to share stories and opinions. Remember to word questions in a way that prevents a simple yes or no answer.  

• What was one of your favorite childhood memories?  
• How did you and (spouse/partner) meet?  
• What was your first job, and what lessons did you learn?  
• What historical event that you lived through stands out in your memory?  
• What hobby or skill did you enjoy most when you were younger?  
• What is one piece of advice you would give your younger self?  
• What has been your proudest moment in life so far?  
• If you could relive any day, which would you choose and why?  
• What’s something you wish younger generations understood better?  
• How have you been feeling lately?     
• If you could go on vacation anywhere, where would it be?  
• What’s your favorite type of music or favorite artist?  
• What were your most-used slang words when you were younger?  
• If you could have dinner with any famous person, alive or not, who would it be?  

Activities to Make Your Time Together Special  

It’s fun to spark lively, engaging conversation by choosing exciting questions. But engaging in activities during your visit can provide a break from chatting and add to the visit.

Tailor the following ideas to your loved one’s abilities and personal preferences.  

• Arts and crafts: Bring along supplies for painting, knitting, or scrapbooking. Creating something together can spark joy and creativity.  
• Photo albums: Look through old photo albums and reminisce about your shared joyful moments. You could also bring a digital photo book of your latest adventures to share.  
• Games and puzzles: Play a game of cards or work on a jigsaw puzzle together. These activities are fun, and stimulating activities like games and puzzles can also help improve cognitive function.  
• Group activities: If the community offers group art classes, bingo nights, or movie screenings, join in together.  
• Gardening: Engage in light gardening. Planting flowers outside or tending to potted plants inside is therapeutic and relaxing.  
• Walks: Take a leisurely stroll through the community’s garden or grounds. Fresh air and movement can do wonders for the soul.  

Tips for Making the Most of Your Visit  

How can you ensure your time together feels fulfilling for both of you? Here are a few helpful tips that can transform an ordinary visit.  

Plan Ahead  

Come prepared with a loose plan for your visit. A mix of activities, conversation prompts, and genuine check-ins minimizes awkward moments. But don’t plan so rigidly that you’re inflexible to your loved one’s potentially changing needs between visits.

Stay Present  

Avoid distractions like checking your phone during the visit. This time is about showing your loved one they have your full attention.  

Be Patient & Empathetic  

Whether it’s lapses in memory or slower mobility, be understanding of your loved one’s pace and efforts. Your patience and kindness are invaluable in helping them feel independent.  

Bring a Personal Touch  

A small gift, such as their favorite treats, a new book, or flowers, can brighten their day even more. Bringing a small gift shows them you’ve thought about them before arriving.  

Leave on a Positive Note  

Before leaving, express your love and gratitude. If appropriate, share a warm hug and confirm your next visit. This gives them something to look forward to.  

Staying Connected Means Everything  

Visits to your senior loved ones in assisted living are golden opportunities to show love, ensure their happiness, and create lasting memories. You can make every visit a treasured moment by asking meaningful questions and sharing engaging activities.  

Reach out to our team at Mira Vie Senior Living if you and your loved one are exploring long-term care options. We’re happy to show you the community and what kind of support your loved one can expect. For example, our compassionate caregivers can help facilitate meaningful visits with your loved one.