Tips for Visiting Nursing Homes and Hospitals during the Holidays

Tips for Visiting Loved Ones in a Hospital or Nursing Home During the Holidays

Visiting a nursing home or hospital during the holidays can be stressful when illnesses are on the rise

We are delighted to welcome you during this special season. To ensure the health, safety, and comfort of all residents, staff, and guests, please review and follow these guidelines during your visit.

The holiday season has arrived, filled with warmth, laughter, and familiar traditions – and for patients and residents, nothing shines brighter than time spent with family. Beyond festive meals and gift-giving, these moments of connection offer a genuine emotional lift. Research continues to show that strong social ties support better physical and mental health and may even contribute to longer life, making every shared story, smile, and memory this time of year a truly meaningful gift.

When a family member or friend is in the hospital or nursing home during the holidays, or even recovering at home after an illness, the season can feel especially difficult. For those who are ill, the thought of missing gatherings with family and friends can make the holidays feel less merry.

To ensure you’re spreading joy – not germs – and avoiding unnecessary anxiety during your visit, please keep these tips in mind:

  1. Check in at the front desk: All visitors must sign in for safety purposes.

  2. Most important: Don’t visit if you are sick. If you’re not feeling well, a phone call is the safest option to avoid infecting patients and others. If you cannot postpone your visit, please wear a mask and practice social distancing.

  3. Before bringing food or flowers, check with a member of the patient’s care team or the individual themselves. Patients may be on restricted diets or sharing space with someone who has allergies.

  4. Avoid strong perfumes or colognes. Intense scents can irritate some patients and may trigger asthma or breathing difficulties in others.

  5. Clean your hands before visiting. Use hand sanitizer or wash with soap and water prior to seeing the patient.

  6. Do not sit on the patient’s bed. This can spread germs. Please use the chairs provided, and avoid placing feet on the bed.

  7. Balance family presence. Large groups can be overwhelming for residents. Consider rotating visitors or keeping gatherings small.

  8. Supervise young children at all times. Do not allow them to crawl on the floor, as it may expose them to germs.

We are dedicated to balancing patient and resident safety with meaningful family connection. Your cooperation helps us create a joyful, safe, and inclusive holiday season for everyone.

Holiday visits are less about grand gestures and more about presence, warmth, and care. By combining thoughtful planning with healthy practices, you help ensure a safe and comforting experience for your loved one.

Thank you for partnering with us in caring for our patients and residents.

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