The Importance of Communication in Assisted Living

Communication is an important part of everyday life in an assisted living community. In each UMH community, we recognize that communication needs dialogue. Learn more about this dialogue in our newest ebook "The ABC's of Assisted Living".

This guide details senior living topics from A to Z, sharing thoughts and opinions about everyday life in an assisted living community as well as offering tips on what to look for when considering options for your loved one. Read more about why our UMH staff have made a commitment to providing consistent, effective communication with our residents and families.  

Here is an excerpt from the ebook:

C is for Communication

In all of our UMH communities, communication first begins with listening. We listen to potential residents and their loved ones when they first come to visit us so we can understand their unique needs and desires for a safe, comfortable and stimulating environment. We explain (not sell) what we have to offer in response to those needs and desires so that potential residents and their loved ones can make informed decisions as to what is right for them.

Communication also requires introductions. We make sure all residents and staff get to know each other so that a sense of community and support provides a backdrop for all our relationships and interactions. We want everyone to “know your name” and who you are.

After the introduction, communication means staying in touch. This means, among other things, keeping our residents informed about current and upcoming activities and celebrations through meetings and bulletins.

Using email and our “one call” systems, we keep folks up to date on what’s happening daily and issue reminders about opportunities for engagement with others. Staying in touch with our residents’ families means regular email and snail mail communication about what’s happening in the community and about their opportunities to become involved.

In each UMH community, we recognize that communication needs dialogue. Our weekly Town Hall Meetings of residents and staff help support open dialogue about our weekly community activities and provide a forum for planning changes and enhancements. Our Resident Councils meet monthly to focus on longer-term opportunities to enhance the residents’ experience and collaboration with the staff.

Above all, communication means commitment. We believe good communication is essential to the success of our communities and the well-being of our residents, families, and staff. It is our commitment to them and you.

About the Author

Barbara Price is the Director of Marketing at Middlewoods of Farmington. She is a gerontologist and educator/consultant with over thirty years of experience in training, marketing, and senior market issues. Her last for-profit corporate position was Vice President of Government Programs for MetraHealth. She was drawn to Middlewoods based on the experience of her mother-in-law who lived happily at Middlewoods for eight years.

Download the rest of the ebook to explore more relevant topics from A to Z!