Placing an elderly loved one in nursing home care often comes with a lot of guilt and worry about them. Maybe you fear not being present enough. You might wonder whether they feel lonely or if the care they receive meets all their needs.
The time you do spend visiting them matters; even if you only have an hour or two to spare per week, those visits provide comfort and reassurance to your aging loved ones. Your visits, though brief, become a powerful way to remind them that they’re loved. Here are a few ways to make those visits to the nursing home more meaningful and memorable.
Put Away Your Phone for Distraction-Free Bonding
Visiting a loved one can be challenging when life constantly tugs at your attention. Phones buzzing or chores waiting at home can steal your focus. Intentionally set aside your devices so your visit is distraction-free and you can focus solely on your loved ones. This helps you be more present with family and shows that you value your time together.
Silence your notifications. Keep your phone in your bag instead of your pocket so you don’t get distracted by vibrations. By giving your full attention, you can let your loved one feel loved and heard. This makes the visit more fulfilling.
Bring a Comforting Piece of Home
Nursing homes can feel unfamiliar, which can be unsettling for the elderly when they’re new. Small items from home can create a sense of comfort. Before your visit, pack a few things that remind your loved ones of home. It can be their favorite cozy blanket, a snack they love, or a framed family photo. This tactile connection reassures them that they’re remembered and loved.
Ask Other Family Members to Join
Nursing home visits can be more lively and memorable when shared with others. Instead of going to the facility alone, ask other relatives if they can join. Invite siblings, grandchildren, and even your loved ones’ close friends if they can make the time.
This allows your loved one to interact with multiple generations. It lets them feel the full scope of their family’s care and attention. Plus, having more people around encourages more bonding and laughter, making for a memorable day.
Encourage Storytelling
As people age, sharing memories and stories becomes comforting and nostalgic. Encourage your elderly loved ones to tell all the stories they want while you’re around. It helps them reflect on their life. It also lets them share values they believe to be important with their kids and grandkids.
Your job is to listen actively to these stories. Hold their hand and nod when you see they’re enjoying sharing their memories. Laugh when they make jokes. Ask lighthearted questions to keep the conversation flowing. Just make sure you go at their pace.
Advocate for Their Needs
Sometimes, visits go beyond companionship. They are opportunities to ensure their health and safety, too. Pay attention to their treatment in the nursing home. Ask your loved one how the experience has been. Speak up if something seems off or if your loved one complains of neglect or abuse.
You may wonder, can you sue a nursing home for neglect, and the answer is yes. That’s why it’s so important to notice potential issues early and take action if needed. Be your loved one’s advocate when they can’t speak up for themselves. It reassures them that someone is protecting their well-being.
Endnote
Visiting a loved one in a nursing home can be emotionally challenging, but it’s also one of the best ways to show care. These family visits are a gift, no matter how brief. When you drop by, be fully present by putting your phone down, listening to their stories, and checking that their needs are being met. Every visit is a chance to show love, and your presence can make that lasting mark on your loved ones’ hearts.
