A Shopping Trip with LakeHouse Fond du Lac Residents
- A shopping trip in the Fond du Lac community gives residents a social option away from the Assisted Living community.
- We plan such trips to prioritize accessibility and to offer clear information to residents and families ahead of time.
- The result of such efforts leads to more confident and independent residents of LakeHouse Fond du Lac and improved mental wellness.
In Fond du Lac, near Lake Winnebago, we consider it vital to ensure that our residents are a part of the larger community. Not only does this give them a better sense of independent enjoyment, but it also means that other generations see a normalization of senior residents in their community, improving their position.
Shopping trips offer the opportunity for new choices, social engagement, and light movement through low-intensity walking.
Expect simple sign-up processes and friendly support from all our staff in attendance, and a directed effort to organize purchases so they reach the right resident's apartment.
How Do Shopping Outings Work in Assisted Living?
Like other senior outings at LakeHouse Fond du Lac, we design our outings for those of our number who wish to see more of the local township of Fond du Lac. These resident-led, community-based senior living events mean we go where those in our care choose to, with our teams coordinating timing to ensure that all instructions on where to be and when are simple to follow.
Our staff covers safety plans with our residents to ensure the trip is accessible and that everyone knows where they need to be at any time. Simple check-ins also ensure that residents and any staff with them can confirm the well-being of those seeking a more independent senior lifestyle.
For a look at some of our most recent trips out, check our Facebook page, where you can see our residents and staff's journey and their enjoyment of the experience.
Generally, we are very excited about the opportunities our residents have chosen to give themselves. Shopping trips are, of course, a focused chance to walk around the local shops. As such, those staying active in retirement often use them to explore a new area and see what shops or malls have to offer.
What Do Seniors Often Enjoy Most on Group Outings?
Many of those who attend the trip enjoy the freedom to move around at their own pace and pick up their favorite items. They can also enjoy the conversation and laughter they share with their senior living neighbors while experiencing something they don't do every day.
Seeing local stores, whether new or old, reinforces seniors' sense of belonging in Fond du Lac. They can feel like they are staying up to date on the latest changes in the area, then go back to the community with opinions on what they've seen.
Simply being outdoors is also a significant benefit of leaving the LakeHouse Fond du Lac. While our own tended garden and surrounding greenery are both beautiful, residents welcome a chance to see somewhere new when mobility is occasionally a challenge. To help these individuals, our staff will ensure they offer advice on safety during heat waves and on what to wear if it is especially cold that day.
How Does a Shopping Trip Support Independence and Choice?
These Assisted Living activities allow for more real-world decision-making than when residents are in their own apartments, our shared lounges, or even in the dining room, enjoying our chef-prepared meals. They can choose:
- What to browse
- What to buy
- To go into a shop
- Whether they want to window-shop
- To converse with the cashier, reducing feelings of isolation
- Whether to enjoy a snack from a vendor
Meanwhile, our staff are always nearby and will check in if it appears a resident is having trouble. We will offer help without taking over decisions, so that those in our care have the option to say "No" if they want to continue trying.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can Family Members Join a Shopping Day?
The shopping center is a public space. We cannot stop people from joining their loved ones. However, we recommend that they speak with the resident in question first.
One of the major parts of independence at a shopping outing is the trust it offers. If you choose to turn up without speaking to your loved one, they may feel that more space is required.
As with any relationship, communication here is key to ensuring their well-being. It offers greater dignity and a chance to talk about the outing they had, rather than potentially intruding if they did not request your presence.
What Does It Cost to Participate?
There is no additional fee to participate in the community outing. However, seniors will need to pay out of pocket if they wish to make any purchases.
At the same time, while they are in the shopping mall, they are the same as anyone else. They can bring along any coupons or loyalty apps they have access to to get better deals.
How Are Special Diet Preferences Handled During Outings?
When a senior makes purchases, we will be around them to help if requested. A resident ultimately chooses what to purchase. If a senior has issues reading labels, we will offer support, for example.
However, if we notice that a resident has purchased something unambiguously problematic, such as peanuts if they have a peanut allergy, we may act to ensure their personal safety.
Engage with the Local Community
A shopping trip can be the highlight of the week for some seniors in Lakehouse Fond du Lac. They get a chance to see the community, move around on their own, and get to know the region a little bit more.
If you or your loved one enjoys the idea of these community outings, which are a key part of our everyday efforts to engage with residents, please speak with us. We can offer a tour so that you can see more of our community and discover the full range of amenities we have, from apartment maintenance to an on-site hair salon. So, get in contact to learn more today.