The most compassionate thing we can do when visiting a nursing home is to remember that each resident is an important individual who has lived a long full life. We need to embrace them just as we have before they entered the home in order to keep that relationship flourishing.
Instructions
1. Call and ask what time is convenient for you to come for a visit. The staff may provide you with the best times to come when the resident is more receptive to company. You would not want to interrupt meals or other regularly scheduled events. If you are invited to come during mealtime, expect to pay for your meal.
2. Knock before entering their room. Shake hands and embrace them lovingly.
3. Look beyond their physical impairments, confusion or disorientation. Simple, loving physical gestures like holding their hands and looking into their eyes works well. You can probably recant all of their stories that they love to tell, but listen intently as if it was the first time they've told you. They often come to life while they are remembering their lifelong experiences.
4. Show off the grandkids! They often provide interesting conversation topics. Plus, children are often the most endearing guests a resident may have.
5. Bring along their favorite music or movies. Think about the activities they enjoyed before becoming a resident. Try to incorporate these same activities into your visits. Check with the staff to see if pets are allowed.
6. Share photographs and home movies. Help them prepare letters to other family members. Doing these things will help to maintain the relationship with your loved one and keep them involved in family life events.
Tags: embrace them, They often