Many adult children with parents or other loved ones in a senior living community, including long-term care or assisted living, worry that they aren’t visiting enough. It can be challenging to balance all your responsibilities, including a career, friends, children, community commitments, and more.
We understand that you want to give your loved one as much attention as you can while they’re receiving long-term care (also known as skilled nursing). Here are some common questions we receive from families, along with some tips to make the most of your time.
Why Visiting Is Important
In a study on loneliness and older adults, researchers concluded that more than half of the residents in a skilled nursing community reported feeling lonely. Loneliness can have a negative emotional and physical impact on us and our loved ones. Loneliness can increase your risk of chronic diseases. cognitive decline, and depression.
Visiting with your loved one and making them feel appreciated and cared for is an excellent way to combat loneliness. Letting them know how important they are to you can help them overcome any feelings of loneliness they may be experiencing.
What Are the Usual Visiting Hours?
Visiting hours will vary depending on the community where your loved one resides. At Optalis and Cranberry Park communities, we offer 24-hour visitation. Be sure to ask each community director this question when you begin your search for senior living, assisted living, or long-term care.
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Related: Gift Ideas for Seniors in Assisted Living or Long-Term Care
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How Often Should I Visit?
This is a challenging question because there is no one-size-fits-all answer. It really comes down to how often you can manage it with your schedule and how often you think your loved one would appreciate a visit. You can always ask the staff at the assisted living or long-term care community for their opinion, as they will be spending the most time with your loved one.
And remember, it’s quality over quantity. In a study on loneliness among older adults in skilled nursing communities, researchers found that the frequency of contact with family and friends did not account for the experience of loneliness. This emotional closeness mattered more than the number of visits.
Just because you can’t visit as often as you’d like doesn’t mean your loved one will feel lonely or abandoned. It’s all about the quality of your visits and making sure your loved one knows you care.
Can I Take My Parent Outside the Residence?
Every community will have different rules, but generally, approved family members or guardians may escort their loved one from the assisted living or long-term care community for short trips. We suggest coordinating such outings with staff members.
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Related: Should My Parent Choose Assisted Living or Skilled Nursing?
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Tips for Visiting Someone in an Assisted Living or Long-Term Care Community
When you do visit, the best thing you can do is make it all about your loved one. Make sure they don’t feel like the visit is rushed or forced. Stay positive, but don’t be afraid to ask them if they aren’t feeling well or are unhappy.
Here are some more tips for visiting a loved one in an assisted living or long-term care community:
- Be mindful of their schedule. Is your mom a morning person? Does your dad enjoy an afternoon nap? Be sure to take their personal preference into account when you visit. You can always call ahead, or even ask the staff when a good time would be to visit that day.
- Ask questions. Sometimes it can be difficult for visitors to think of things to talk about with their loved one for an extended visit. Some great conversation starters include asking about their childhood memories, discussing current events they’re interested in, or seeking advice about a favorite hobby you share.
- Bring guests every now and then — but not all at once. Perhaps your loved one would enjoy a visit from their grandkids or their old neighbor. It might be a good idea to bring them along on your next visit.
- Hold their hand. Physical touch can be extremely comforting unless your parent doesn’t like to be touched. If they enjoy physical affection, consider holding their hand, fixing their hair, or giving them a warm hug.
Long-Term and Assisted Living Care in Ohio and Michigan
At Optalis communities, we take the time to get to know our residents. To avoid feelings of loneliness, we have permanent staffing assignments that support genuine relationships. Even when you can’t visit, the staff will be there for your loved one.
The social atmosphere of assisted living and long-term care communities like the Optalis communities is also tremendously beneficial. Your loved one can participate in engaging dining experiences that promote social interaction and enjoy a variety of tasty food options, as well as other life-enriching activities that promote well-being.
For more information on Optalis personalized care services, download our free long-term care guide, explore our website, or contact us online.
This blog was originally published in 2020 and updated in 2025.
