How to Make the Most of Every Visit to a Care Home
Visiting a loved one in a care home is a great way to stay connected and show your support. Even if your visits are short, they can make a big difference in their day. In this guide, we’ll go over some practical tips to help you make the most of each visit, including what to expect when it comes to visiting hours at most care homes.
What are the visiting hours at most residential care homes?
Most care homes often allow flexible visits so residents can continue enjoying the same level of social interaction they had before. However, some have designated times to manage daily routines, such as meal times or specific activities. It’s always a good idea to check with the care home about their visitation policies and find out if there are any restrictions, especially during flu season.
Making the Most of Your Time Together
Once you’re at the care home, focusing on quality time is important. Here are some tips to make your visit truly count:
Engage in activities
Doing something together can make your visit more interactive and enjoyable. Why not play a simple game, take a stroll around the garden or look through old photos and talk about happy memories?
Have meaningful conversations
Focus on uplifting topics during your visit. Ask about their day, share news from home or hone in on their interests. Also, take the time to listen – sometimes, your loved one may just want to talk about how they’re feeling.
Be present and attentive
Give your loved one your full attention during the visit. Put away your phone and focus on being in the moment with them. Your undivided attention will make them feel valued and loved, which is something they need, especially if they are new to care home life.
Things to Do During Your Care Home Visit
Bring their favourite food – Share a treat or meal they love to enjoy together.
Go for a walk – Stroll around the garden or outdoor areas to get some fresh air and a change of scenery.
Listen to music – Play their favourite songs or music from their era; it can be soothing and nostalgic.
Read aloud – Bring a book, article or letters from family members to read together.
Watch a film or TV show – Enjoy an old movie or show, bringing a sense of normalcy and entertainment.
Look through old photos – Jump into nostalgia and look through family photos or create a new photo album together.
Play a game – Engage in a simple board game, card game or puzzle to keep the mind active.
Do a craft or hobby – Work on a small craft project, knit or help with a hobby they enjoy.
Help with personal grooming – Assist with simple grooming tasks like brushing their hair, painting their nails or organising their personal space.
Plan the next visit – Talk about when you’ll visit next and what you might do together, giving your loved one something to look forward to.
How to Prepare for a Care Home Visit
Making the most of your visit starts with a bit of preparation. Here’s how to get ready:
Plan Around Their Routine
Check your loved one’s daily schedule before visiting. It’s best to time your visit so that it doesn’t interrupt meals, therapy sessions or other essential activities.
Bring Something Special
Consider bringing a small gift, like a favourite snack or something meaningful, like a family photo or a book they love. These small gestures can brighten your relative’s day and give you both something to enjoy during the visit.
Set Realistic Expectations
Knowing what to expect when you visit is helpful. Be aware that your loved one’s condition might change from visit to visit. Go in with an open mind and be ready to adjust your approach based on how they’re feeling that day.
Navigating Visitation Challenges
If a visit becomes overwhelming for either of you, it’s okay to take a break or shift to something more calming, like listening to music or just sitting together quietly. Shortening the visit can also help you manage these difficulties.
When visiting hours are limited, focus on making the limited time you do have really matter. Start meaningful conversations or activities that make your loved one feel special. And if you can’t be there in person, stay connected with regular phone calls or other ways that they may prefer. As your loved one’s health or routine changes, be ready to adjust your approach. Sometimes, a shorter, low-key visit is all they need. The key is to stay patient and flexible, making sure your visits are as comforting and enjoyable as possible.
Cherishing Time Together
First, you must find out the visiting hours at the residential care home. This lets you prepare properly and focus on quality time with your loved one without worrying about overstepping time limitations. Remember, you don’t need to make grand gestures whenever you see your family member. Even small efforts make a big difference in their well-being and happiness.
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