Visiting your family members at an assisted living facility can be a great way to support them and maintain a strong bond while ensuring they are well taken care of. There may be times, however, when your schedule changes and you are unable to make your regular visit. If you are wondering, “Should I check in with the staff if I can’t make my usual visit?” you’re asking an important question.
Keeping facility staff informed about changes in your visiting schedule may help set expectations. If you are unable to visit as frequently, there are multiple options available to connect with your loved one.
Why Checking in With Staff at the Assisted Living Facilities Can Be Helpful
Assisted living facility staff are often the first point of contact when you need to check on your loved one or if you have any concerns you need to address. Keeping them informed about changes in your visiting schedule can be beneficial for several reasons.
Providing Support for Your Loved One
Seniors who reside at assisted living facilities often look forward to visits from loved ones. Seeing family can be a source of comfort for them, especially as they adapt to living in their new home. When there is a change in the visiting schedule, they may feel disappointed or upset. If staff can anticipate that a visit will take place, they can provide emotional support to the resident if needed.
Changing Your Loved One’s Care Schedule
Staff may come to expect your visit at a specific time and date throughout the week if your visiting schedule is consistent. By informing them that you are not able to attend, they can adjust your loved one’s care schedule. This may mean having someone check in on them more frequently or encouraging them to participate in activities during the time they would have spent with you.
Coordinating Communication Outside of Visits
Family members may benefit from visits to the facility to receive important updates about their loved one’s health and wellness. When you are unable to visit, especially if it is for a long period, communicating with staff about this can help set expectations regarding your availability and how to contact you.
Staff play a pivotal role in the care of seniors at assisted living facilities. It is helpful to keep them in the loop about any changes that can affect residents.
Ways to Check in With Staff If You Can’t Make Your Usual Visit
Your loved one’s assisted living facility may offer several ways to communicate with staff when needed. You may be able to contact a staff member by reaching out to the facility’s front desk or nurse’s station.
If you are unable to speak with a staff member directly, you may be able to leave a message with your information and that of the resident, as well as details about when you are unable to visit and, if possible, when your next planned visit is. You may also have the option of contacting staff through email or a facility-specific app.
If you know ahead of schedule that you won’t be able to make your typical visit, you can inform those who care for your family member about your change in schedule during a prior visit.
How to Connect With Loved Ones if You Can’t Visit
As much as you want to see your loved ones frequently, it is not always possible. Though speaking with staff at assisted living facilities can be helpful if you cannot make your usual visit, there are ways you can support a family member when you cannot be physically present:
- Communicate via phone call or video chat if residents are technologically savvy or if staff at the facility can help arrange this for them.
- When you cannot make your regular visit, it can be an opportune time to encourage other family members to visit your loved one.
- Let a loved one know you are thinking of them by sending a handwritten note, a thoughtful care package, or photos.
Physical presence is important, but the support of facility staff and connecting with your loved one in other ways can make missing a usual visit less stressful for all.
FAQs
Q: Should I Check in With the Staff If I Can’t Make My Usual Visit?
A: It is recommended that you check in with the staff if you cannot make your usual visit. Doing so can help set expectations for the staff and your loved one. Staff may be able to check in on a resident if they need emotional support. They can also help coordinate activities your family member can participate in during your typical visit time.
Q: Should I Ask Staff to Check in on My Loved One During My Missed Visit Time?
A: It is ok to ask staff to check in on your loved one during your missed visit time. They can ensure that your loved one’s needs are taken care of and that they are coping well with the missed visit. Be mindful that staff may have other residents they need to assist, so they may be unable to spend the entire time with your loved one.
Q: How Much Notice Should I Give the Staff if I Will Miss My Usual Visit?
A: You should provide staff with notice as soon as you know you might miss your usual visit, even if you are unsure and may need to confirm later on. This may allow staff to rearrange your loved one’s schedule and set a time to check in on them. They can also help you communicate with your loved one virtually.
Q: How Often Should You Visit Someone in Assisted Living?
A: You may find that at the beginning of their stay at an assisted living facility, loved ones may benefit from more frequent visits as they adjust to their new home. As time passes and they begin to adapt, you can determine a suitable frequency to visit your family members to ensure you maintain your relationship and support them while honoring your own needs.
Staff Can Provide a Layer of Support if You Cannot Make Your Usual Visit
For those whose loved ones reside at an assisted living facility, staff can be a critical support partner in the care of their family member. Informing facility staff as soon as possible about changes in your visiting schedule can help set expectations for staff, allowing them to provide much-needed support for your loved one.
Rocky Mountain Assisted Living offers seniors the support and independence they need as they transition into a new way of life. Our dedicated staff is available to answer your questions and address any concerns you may have about your loved one’s care. Contact us today to learn more about our facilities and services.