Summer is a wonderful time to reconnect, enjoy the sunshine, and make memories with those who matter most. For families with loved ones in skilled nursing facilities, summer visits offer a special opportunity to spend quality time together. With a little planning and creativity, these visits can be uplifting, engaging, and meaningful for everyone involved.
At Belmont Healthcare Center, we understand how important it is for families to feel connected. Thoughtful visits can brighten spirits, support emotional well-being, and strengthen bonds. Whether it’s a short visit during the week or a weekend getaway to the garden, every moment counts when it comes to supporting your loved ones.
Start with Your Loved One’s Comfort in Mind
Before planning any visit, consider your loved one’s current health, energy level, and daily routine. The staff at Belmont Healthcare Center can help you choose the best time of day to visit and suggest activities that match your loved one’s preferences.
Mornings may work well for loved ones who feel more energetic early in the day, while afternoons might be better for those who benefit from a slow and restful start. Keeping visits relaxed and low-pressure helps your loved ones enjoy the time without feeling overwhelmed or fatigued.
Take Advantage of the Outdoors
Summer is the perfect season to enjoy time outside, and Belmont Healthcare Center’s scenic outdoor common spaces provide a lovely setting for fresh air and conversation. If your loved one enjoys nature, consider bringing a light picnic, cold drinks, or even just a sun hat and sunglasses for a quiet sit in the shade.
Outdoor visits allow your loved ones to enjoy the beauty of the season and the simple joy of being outside. These settings can also be more relaxing and peaceful than busy indoor areas, especially when the weather is warm and pleasant.
Bring a Favorite Treat or Activity
One way to make a visit more special is to bring something familiar or enjoyable for your loved one. This could be a favorite snack, a new book to read together, a crossword puzzle, or family photos. Shared activities offer meaningful interaction and help create new memories.
Many loved ones find comfort in familiar items or routines. Even something as simple as enjoying a favorite flavored iced tea or listening to familiar music can have a powerful impact on their mood and sense of connection.
Include Grandkids or Pets When Appropriate
If your loved one enjoys spending time with children or pets, a visit from a grandchild or a calm, friendly dog can be especially uplifting. Just be sure to check with the staff at Belmont Healthcare Center ahead of time to make sure the visit fits facility guidelines.
Kids may enjoy sharing a drawing, telling a story, or showing off a new toy. Pets can offer comfort and companionship that feels different from what people provide. These types of visits can bring laughter, energy, and warmth to your loved ones in a unique and memorable way.
Take Time to Listen
Sometimes, the most meaningful moments are the quiet ones. Your loved ones may appreciate the chance to simply talk, reminisce, or share how they’re feeling. Active listening can provide comfort and remind them that they are seen and heard.
Bring along a few conversation starters or photo albums to help spark memories. Asking open-ended questions about their past, favorite vacations, or summer traditions can help your loved ones feel connected and valued.
Respect Boundaries and Be Flexible
As much as you may want your visit to be filled with excitement and activity, it’s important to respect your loved one’s limits. Some days they may feel more energetic than others. Be open to adjusting your plans based on how they feel at the time of your visit.
Let the visit unfold naturally and go with the flow. Even a short, gentle visit can have a lasting impact when it’s approached with care and understanding.
Make Visits a Regular Tradition
If possible, plan recurring summer visits so your loved ones have something to look forward to. Knowing that a loved one will visit each week or every other weekend can boost mood and provide a sense of rhythm and connection.
You can even create small traditions, like bringing a cold treat on hot days, reading a chapter from a book during each visit, or walking through the garden together. These little moments become meaningful anchors that your loved ones will remember.
Making the Most of Summer Moments
A summer visit to see your loved ones in skilled nursing can be much more than a quick drop-in. With thoughtful planning and a focus on connection, each visit becomes an opportunity to bring joy, support emotional well-being, and deepen your relationship. Belmont Healthcare Center is here to support you every step of the way as you continue to be a meaningful part of your loved ones’ lives.