When guests come to visit me at the nursing home

The frequency with which residents receive visitors varies. Some have close relatives who visit every day, while others have relatives who live in other parts of the country or the world. When family and friends visit, most of us like to offer our guests something.

Often, these less frequent guests come on the weekend or perhaps as a detour during their vacation trip. Some might bring something with them, while others might just drop by. They might come in the middle of the day, at lunchtime, or for a coffee break.

In some residences, it is possible to prepare a little snack or warm up food in the room. In others, it's not possible. A residence can do a lot to make guests feel welcome. The attitude and willingness vary between different operations. One factor that can contribute is how food is delivered to the residence and how precisely it is calculated to last for the residents.

Other factors can be local regulations in the municipality or that the operation has decided not to serve because a relative has abused the hospitality.

An inviting entrance

First impressions are crucial:  
An inviting and clear entrance creates a good first impression for visitors. By keeping the entrance clean, bright, and easy to navigate, and perhaps adding plants or artwork, a pleasant environment is created. A reception where the staff greets kindly and is available to answer questions provides an extra sense of care and service.
Information in a clear and welcoming way:  
It's important to have clear signs that show the way to different departments and rooms. By also having welcoming and informative brochures about the residence and its activities, visitors can quickly get a good overview of the operation. The opportunity to get a tour or brief information upon arrival can also create a sense of inclusion.

Provide a hospitable environment

Create pleasant communal spaces:  
Having common areas designed for visitors and residents to sit and socialise in a comfortable and relaxed manner can make a big difference. Comfortable chairs, cosy seating areas, and access to coffee or tea can contribute to a relaxed atmosphere. It's also good if there are spaces where visitors and residents can sit undisturbed if desired.
Attention to detail:  
Small details can make visitors feel extra welcome, such as offering parking spaces for visitors or having a guest book where visitors can leave a greeting.

Engaged and friendly staff

Approach is everything:  
The most important thing in creating a welcoming atmosphere is the staff's approach. A friendly smile, eye contact, and a simple greeting make both visitors and residents feel appreciated. The staff should be available to assist and answer questions, and show that visits are an important part of the residence's routine.
Inform the staff about upcoming visits:  
Informing the staff about upcoming visits can be beneficial in order to prepare. The staff can then make sure that the residents are prepared and looking forward to the visit, and perhaps help to create an extra pleasant moment for both residents and visitors.

Adapt spaces for visitors

Safety and accessibility:  
The nursing home should ensure that there are spaces available and suitable for visitors. On special occasions, such as holidays or family gatherings, it might be appreciated to arrange larger common areas where more visitors can be together with their relatives.
Activities for visitors and residents:  
Inviting to common activities where both residents and their relatives can participate creates a sense of community. It can be anything from a coffee break in the garden to a cultural activity like music or theatre. Creating an inviting and engaging atmosphere through common activities makes the visits more enjoyable for everyone involved.

Open communication and flexibility

Inform about visiting hours and guidelines:  
To avoid misunderstandings or stress, it's important to have clear and ongoing information for interested parties. It's not so fun to visit and discover that there's a stomach flu going around in the nursing home. By being responsive to the needs of both residents and visitors, the nursing home can create a permissive and welcoming environment.

Summary

Reflection questions - pleasant visits:

Care staff:
- How do you handle a situation where one of the residents has guests?
- Are they invited to sit down and eat?  

Manager, nurse, occupational therapist, and physiotherapist:
- Do you have any rules for how you treat relatives who come at lunchtime?
- Is it the same all days of the week?
- Do you differentiate between those who come once a year or daily?  

Residents and relatives:
- What can the residence do to make guests feel welcome when they visit?  

Erland Olsson
Specialist nurse
Sofrosyne - Better care every day