A Guide to Visiting Family in Care Homes

If you're thinking about visiting a care home to see a family member or friend, there are a few things you should keep in mind. From scheduling a visit in advance to following rules set out by the care home, our care home visiting guidance covers all the information you need to make your visit as smooth and enjoyable as possible.

Scheduling your care home visits in advance so that the team members can be prepared

Planning ahead is the key to a successful visit. When you schedule your care home visits in advance, the team members can properly prepare for you, which ensures that they have the time and resources necessary to accommodate your experience. If they’re aware of your visit, carers will also be able to prepare any questions they may have for you or anything they’d like to share about your loved one’s care.   Additionally, many care homes, such as KYN, frequently plan outings and day-trips for residents to enjoy. It’s important to let the care home know when to expect you to ensure your loved one will be at home when you arrive.

How often can you visit a care home?

You should always feel welcome to visit the care home as often as you would like. However, it’s important to talk to your loved one and take their lead. They will let you know if there are certain days or times they’d prefer you to come, or if they would appreciate a rest between visits.   Sticking to a regular schedule can help your loved one feel more secure, as they will always know when they will see you next. They will also have a chance to prepare for your visit and get ready on time for your arrival.

Bring along a small gift or card for your loved one

Making the effort to bring a small gift with you on your visit to the care home can be a simple way to show your loved one that you care. Whether it's a simple heartfelt card or an expensive trinket, it doesn't matter: what ultimately matters is the thought behind the gesture. A thoughtful surprise is a sure way to make anyone feel loved and acknowledged.
Ask your loved one if there’s anything they would like you to bring along when you next visit. For example, they may appreciate some fresh flowers for their room, a tasty snack, a new pair of slippers or a bottle of their favourite body lotion. Be sure to check with the care home team members if they have any suggestions or if there are any restrictions on what you can bring into the home. For example, some care homes may not allow alcohol.

Be respectful of other care home residents

While it's natural to be excited to see your family member or friend, remember that there are other people living in the care home who deserve respect and privacy. So, when you’re spending time in a common area, such as the dining room or lounge, it’s important to be mindful of other residents.   Try to speak at a reasonable volume and respect each individual’s personal space. This will help promote a relaxed atmosphere and ensure everyone has an enjoyable and safe visit.   Additionally, remember that other residents may have health needs that you may not be aware of. It’s important to check with the care home team members before helping someone out of a chair or sharing a box of chocolates you’ve brought, for example.  

Follow any rules and regulations set by the care home

Many care homes such as KYN have a visitor’s policy, which provides useful information about what we must all do to support resident’s privacy and dignity. For example, ensuring photos of residents are not taken without their permission.   Care homes are required to have specific rules and regulations in place that must be followed to ensure everyone's safety and well-being. Make sure you are familiar with the care home's policies before visiting, as they play an integral role in maintaining a positive space for everyone.   For example, many care homes require visitors to wear a mask, practise social distancing or take a COVID test before entering the home.   Visiting hours may also vary between residences. Some care homes will not place any limitations on when you can visit. However, some may ask you to leave by a certain hour to avoid disrupting residents’ night-time routines.   It is also important to read through notices sent by team members as they may contain information that could impact your visit.

How many visitors can visit a care home?

The number of visitors allowed at one time in a care home may vary. It all depends on the policies set out by that particular care home, so ask if you’re unsure. Generally, it’s best to check with the care home if you’re planning to bring more than two or three people. This will allow them to better prepare for your visit and make sure there is enough space for you.
At KYN, we encourage our residents’ loved ones to play an active part in their day-to-day lives. Visitors are welcome to join in with recreational activities and enjoy meals together in the dining room. We will always do everything we can to help you feel comfortable and make the most of your quality time together.  

Take some time to talk with the team members about how your loved one is doing

Taking the time to connect with the care home team members who are caring for your loved one is essential. A simple inquiry about how they are doing can help ensure that your loved one is being looked after and make sure their needs and preferences are being properly catered for.   Talking to the team members also ensures that important information from doctors and other medical professionals are understood and followed through with. It also gives you an opportunity to bring up any specific questions or concerns you may have about your loved one’s care, daily activities, health and happiness. Ultimately, good communication between residents, families and team members helps to build relationships rooted in trust and respect.  

Conclusion

Visiting care homes can be the most rewarding experience for both you and your loved one. It's important to schedule your visit in advance, be respectful of other residents, follow the residence’s policies and take some time to talk with the team members. By keeping our care home visiting guidance in mind, you can make sure that visiting a care home  s enjoyable for everyone involved.

Discover KYN: Luxury Care Homes in London and the South East

If you are considering visiting someone in a care home, we hope our care home visiting guidance guide has been helpful. At KYN, we offer the highest standards of residential and nursing care in inspiring, beautifully decorated environments. Our aim is to truly enrich the lives of everyone who calls KYN home.   We get to know each resident as an individual by learning their history, lifestyle, needs and preferences. We then create a holistic, personalised care plan that focuses equally on physical, mental and emotional wellbeing. In addition, each resident can enjoy a range of cultural, intellectual and recreational activities, while our bespoke household system helps to enrich meaningful social connections.   For more information about our services and to book a visit, get in touch with KYN now. Fill out the online form or give us a call at +44 (0) 20 4530 7700, or send an email to enquiries@kyn.co.uk today.