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Do Assisted Living Facilities Have Specific Visiting Hours?
Date Updated: July 26, 2024
Written by:
Rachel Lustbader is a writer and editor with a background in healthcare and technology. Her work has been published on websites including HealthCare.com, BiteSizeBio.com, BetterHelp.com, Caring.com, and PayingforSeniorCare.com. She studied health science and public health at Boston University.
Both of Rachel’s grandmothers had very positive experiences in senior living communities, and Rachel saw firsthand the impact that kind, committed caregivers and community managers can have on seniors’ and their family members’ lives. With her work at Caring, Rachel hopes to help other families find communities, caregivers, and at-home products that benefit elderly loved ones and make life less stressful for family caregivers
How often should you visit loved ones in assisted living?
How often you visit your loved one in assisted living depends on their preferences or needs and your schedule. The National Council on Aging reports social isolation and loneliness impact the quality of life for older adults.
If your loved one has a hard time adjusting to their new environment and making friends, visiting more frequently may boost their mood and help them acclimate. However, visiting too often can interfere with their daily schedule, making it difficult to establish new routines and relationships.
Should you plan your assisted living visit in advance?
Planning an assisted living visit in advance prevents disruptions to your loved one’s routine and helps them prepare for guests. Many assisted living communities maintain daily schedules for meals, activities and events to enable consistent routines, which improve physical and mental health.
You can request a copy of the schedule or ask your loved one what days or times work best for them. It’s also important to review the community’s visitor policies before making plans.
Can guests participate in assisted living activities with loved ones?
Some assisted living communities allow and encourage guests to participate in activities and mealtimes with their loved ones. Research suggests family involvement improves the quality of life for long-term care residents. To increase family engagement, some communities plan special events, including family dinners or holiday celebrations, and provide guest suites to accommodate overnight stays. This makes it easier for out-of-town family members or friends to visit.
However, some communities charge guest fees for meals, parking or housing. Due to privacy or safety concerns, they also may restrict what amenities or services guests can access.