How often should you visit someone in a care home?

When a loved one moves into a care home, it can be difficult to determine how often to visit. While there isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer, understanding the benefits of visiting and how to make the most of your time together can help ease any concerns.

At Field House Care Home, we encourage you to do what feels right when visiting. Even if you can only pop in for a quick 10 minutes, that can nearly be just as valuable as visiting all day. Remember that the phrase is “quality time,” not “quantity time”.

Tips for Visiting Loved Ones in a Care Home

Consider the Transition

The initial period after moving into a care home can sometimes be challenging, especially for family members – the vast majority of residents settle in very, very quickly. During this time, a temporary visiting schedule might help ease the transition. Frequent visits can support and help you and your loved one adjust to the new environment. Over time, you can adjust the frequency of visits to fit around other commitments.

Establish a Routine

Creating a visiting routine can benefit consistency, reassurance, and balance times.

• A set schedule helps reduce the pressure to visit constantly and ensures that visits are well-planned and meaningful.
• Regular visits comfort your loved one and allow care home staff to reassure them about upcoming visits.
• Scheduling visits around other commitments ensures you can focus on your time together without feeling rushed.

Keep in Touch Outside of Visits

The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the benefits of alternative communication methods that allowed residents to keep in touch with their loved ones outside of physical visits. Video and phone calls are a great way to stay in touch if you cannot visit. Video calls are often preferable to those with dementia, as they allow for visual cues and better communication. We have Wi-Fi throughout the home, so every resident can make and receive video or phone calls from their own bedroom.

Be Prepared to Reschedule

Not every day is a good day for some residents to have a visitor. Your loved one might not feel up to a visit due to health or mood, so it’s important to be flexible and reschedule if necessary to avoid causing distress.

Get Involved in Life at Northleach Court

Engaging in care home activities can enhance your visit. It will help boost your confidence in life at the care home and your loved ones, promote interaction with staff and other residents, and reassure you that your loved ones’ happiness and well-being are being prioritised.

At Northleach Court Care Home, we encourage families to participate in our various activities. These include everything from visiting entertainers to board games to flower arranging. We keep our activities engaging and inclusive for all residents. You can look here for a more comprehensive look at our activities.

Do what is right for you and your loved one

Regular visits play a crucial role in maintaining the emotional well-being of care home residents. At Northleach Court Care Home, we aim to create a welcoming environment where families feel comfortable visiting and participating in our community. Remember, the frequency of visits should be tailored to what works best for you and your loved one, ensuring a balance that maintains your relationship and supports their well-being. If you have any questions about visiting, you can contact us here.

When searching for “care homes near me” or “respite care near me,” it’s important to find a facility that meets your needs and those of your loved one. At Northleach Court Care Home, we provide both nursing care and respite care, ensuring comprehensive support for all residents. Whether you are looking for long-term nursing care or short-term respite options, our dedicated team is here to help.