News & Views
How Often Should You Visit A Loved One In A Care Home?
Tips On Creating A Good Experience
Deciding how often to visit your loved one when they have recently moved into a nursing home is a deeply personal decision that has no one-size-fits-all answer. You understand the needs and abilities of your relative best. Whatever you decide works best for you, our friendly care home staff will be there to help.
Considering the following factors will help you to make a more informed and confident choice about how regular your visits will be and the best way to spend time with your loved one.
Things To Consider
1. Reaction To Visits
Every resident’s response to visits will vary greatly. Some may light up with joy at the sight of a familiar face, while others may feel disrupted or distressed by changes in their routine. This may especially be the case for those with dementia or memory loss.
Pay close attention to how your loved one reacts during and after your visits, and adjust your frequency and activities accordingly to ensure it remains a positive experience for both of you.
2. Personality
You know your loved one best and will understand how much social interaction they enjoy. Some people prefer to be very social and others relax by having downtime on their own. Be aware of what your relatives will prefer and arrange your schedule to suit.
3. Time To Adjust
Moving to a new place always involves a period of adjustment and settling into your new environment. Keep this in mind as you plan visits.
Would your loved one find it easier to get used to care home life by having you pop in regularly or would it be best for them to feel established before receiving visitors? The situation will differ from person to person.
4. Physical Ability
Frequent visits might be tiring for someone with limited energy or health issues. Stay in touch with the care home nurses so they can update you on how your loved one is feeling. You can work with professional advice to a schedule that aligns with their physical capabilities.
5. Proximity
How far do you live from the care home? If you’re nearby, more frequent visits might be feasible. For those living farther away, less regular but longer visits could be more practical. Finding a balance that suits both your logistics is essential.
6. Your Well-Being
Visiting an elderly relative can be hard, especially if they are have health problems that make them behave differently to how they used to. Make sure you consider your own well-being when planning visits, recognising they may take an emotional toll. Our friendly team are always on hand to chat and offer helpful tips on making your visits the best they can be for everyone involved.
What To Do On Your Visit
Planning what you visit will involve ahead of time will make the trip smoother and simpler. Here are some ideas of what you can spend time doing with your loved one:
- Bring Photographs
Share recent photographs on your phone to update your loved one on what you and your wider family are up to. Alternatively, bring some older printed photographs and reflect on good memories together. - Enjoy the Gardens
At Willow Grange, we are proud of our beautiful gardens. Relax in our comfortable outdoor furniture and enjoy being out in the fresh air and sunshine together. - Play A Game
Does your loved one have a favourite board game? Simpler games are often the most effective, why not bring a pack of cards with you? - Join In Activities
We have plenty going on at Willow Grange, have a look at our activities page for the proof! You are more than welcome to join in any of the activities with your loved one. Just let us know! - Go For A Drive
Depending on how able your loved one is, you could always take them out for a short trip. This could be a simple drive around the countryside listening to music or you could make a stop at a cafe, garden centre or family’s house for a cup of tea.
Choosing a Good Care Home
The best way to ensure your loved one’s happiness and health is to choose a great nursing home. We are proud of expert care, friendly staff and fantastic facilities here at Willow Grange, it really does feel like a home from home.
If you are looking for an outstanding care home in Surbiton, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us. We look forward to discussing how we can help your loved one have an excellent care home experience and the ways in which we can support you and your family throughout.
Give us a call today on 020 8399 8948 or use our contact form to get in touch.