TIPS FOR VISITING A NURSING HOME RESIDENT

By:  Shelley Placito, MSW

When to visit:

Please check with the nursing staff to determine the best day or time of day to visit your loved one.  They may have a time of day when they are more alert, less tired and in better spirits.  Doctor’s appointments, therapy appointments or activities may conflict with your visit time so it’s always best to check with the nursing staff if at all possible.  It may save you a wasted trip to the facility.

Where to visit:

Unless your resident has a private room, visits are best conducted in a day room or other common area.  If the resident is bed-bound, their room may be the only option.  It is polite to inquire whether the roommate is agreeable to you spending time in their room.  Of course, you should step out if asked to do so.  You should refer any problems with visitation to the nurse.  Limit the number of visitors so that the resident is not overwhelmed.

Children visiting:

Residents generally enjoy visits by babies and children.  However, please keep these visits short since children may become restless.  Children should never be left unattended, be allowed to roam the facility, touch or use equipment such as wheelchairs or other medical equipment which might be present.  Insure that children (and adults also) wash their hands well with soap and water upon leaving.  Never bring a sick child or come yourself when sick as the elderly are especially susceptible to illness.

Pet visitation:

Pets are allows and are even encouraged to visit nursing home residents.  Clearly, the pet must be under the direct control of an adult and should never be left unattended.  Good Samaritan encourages “pet therapy” but our policy requires that the pet owner file a copy of the pet’s vaccination record with the Administrator prior to bringing any animal onto facility property.