The decision can be difficult if you’re considering moving a loved one into assisted living in Ridgeland, MS. While you may worry your relative will have a hard time adjusting to new surroundings and unfamiliar people, there’s no reason to fear for their well-being as long as you know what rights they have while staying in an assisted living community. Before you visit, it’s important to understand the visitor policies of the assisted living community. These policies are designed to protect both residents and visitors. They may vary based on the community, so be sure to ask your loved one about specifics if they’re unclear. Visitors should be aware of their rights as well.
Know about the Facility’s Infection Control Measures
When visiting an assisted living community, it’s important to know there are many things you can do to protect yourself from infection. You should always wash your hands before eating or touching anyone else. You should also avoid sharing food and drinks with other residents, as germs can quickly pass through these items. Additionally, if you get sick while visiting someone in an assisted living community, inform staff immediately so they can take appropriate measures to protect all residents and staff members from getting sick as well!
Call Before You Visit to Verify Visitation Hours and Availability
Call before you visit to verify visitation hours and availability. This will ensure that you don’t visit when your loved one is busy with another activity, such as a therapy session or meals. If you need clarification on whether or not a visit is appropriate in this case, consider researching the facility’s policies online beforehand. Then call them directly to make sure they can accommodate your needs.
Get Tested for COVID-19 Before Visiting Your Loved One
COVID-19 is a disease that has been spreading rapidly throughout the United States. It causes fever, muscle weakness, and difficulty breathing. If you visit your loved one in assisted living and are coming from an area where COVID-19 has been reported, it’s recommended you get tested for the virus before visiting them.
Visit When the Staff Needs You, not Just When it’s Convenient for You
When visiting a loved one in assisted living, don’t just visit when it’s convenient for you. Instead, visit during meal times and social activities. These are times when staff needs your presence most, and they should be able to count on you being there! Consider visiting during therapy sessions with your loved one. While part of the goal of therapy sessions is to allow patients to lead independent lives by developing their coping mechanisms, doctors sometimes find that family members can provide valuable insight on educating patients about their condition, or what steps they should take next in terms of treatment options or daily routine management techniques.
Determine if the Restrictions Apply to Your Visit
It’s important to determine if restrictions apply. Often, these are decided by an administrator and must be followed. However, there are times when personal preference or common sense will dictate whether or not visitors may enter. If your loved one is sick with a contagious illness, you shouldn’t visit until they have fully recovered. This prevents spreading germs and keeps other residents safe from getting sick as well. If your loved one is under quarantine for any reason, or has been diagnosed with an infectious disease such as tuberculosis, chickenpox or measles, this restriction applies. Even if they appear healthy at first glance, chances are they haven’t reached the contagious phase of their ailment!
Conclusion
There are many issues to consider when visiting someone in assisted living, but it’s important that you know your rights as a visitor. By being aware of these rights, you can be sure to enjoy your time with your loved one while protecting their health and safety.
