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'lights of faith' brighten our lives

(Editor’s note: The Messenger has asked Muriel Shackelford to answer questions related to long-term care. She is the retired regional long-term care ombudsman with Land of Lincoln Legal Assistance Foundation with offices in East St. Louis.)

Dear Muriel,

My organization is planning to adopt a nursing home in our community. Please give tips on visiting nursing home residents.
Thanks
PG
Dear PG:
Congratulations to you and your organization on recognizing and actively demonstrating the value and worth of the elderly, especially those residing in long term care facilities including assisted living and supportive living communities. Your efforts promote the development of strong community ties to all ages and allow the elderly to know that they continue to be important members of their community and society.

Following are steps that will enhance your nursing home visits:
Review on line Nursing Home Compare
Group decision regarding choice of nursing home
Talk about what to expect when visiting nursing home
Meet with administrator regarding adoption
Arrange with administrator a tour of facility and orientation by nursing home staff regarding visiting policies/procedures
Include in orientation the meeting of key staff, i.e. activities director and director of nurses Group decision regarding gifts — they should be appropriate — if you bring food always check with director of nurses and the activity director
Remember you are in the home of the resident — knock before entering room and wait for a response
Acknowledge the resident’s personal interests, i.e. family pictures, background, health limitations, etc
Visiting takes on many forms in this setting — you may see residents in the hallway, lobby, sometimes in the dining area after meals are served and on the outside of the facility
Residents and staff are to be treated with dignity and respect
Introductions to residents are the same as to any individual you would meet for the first time
Schedule visits when you have time to visit and not be rushed
Always keep your promise to residents regarding when you will visit — if unable to visit — contact facility administrator and ask that the resident be notified After your first visit — meet with your group and review your activities and allow time for sharing
Brainstorm on how to make the next visit better.

Remember only the address of the resident has changed — they continue to be valued members of the community.
Enjoy your visits!

If you have additional questions regarding placing a loved one in long term care, assisted living, and or supportive living facilities you may contact Land of Lincoln Legal Assistance Foundation’s Long Term Care Regional Ombudsman (Brenda Acoff) at 618-398-0958 Ext.210.