When a loved one moves into a memory care community, one of the first questions families ask is: “How often should I visit?” The answer isn’t the same for every family—it depends on your loved one’s stage of dementia, their personality, and how they’re adjusting to their new environment.
Visits from family members play a vital role in emotional well-being, but finding the right balance is key. Too few visits can leave your loved one feeling disconnected, while too many early on may make it harder for them to adjust to their new routine.
At Silverado, we believe families are an essential part of the care journey. Here’s what to consider when planning visits.
Why Visits Are Important
Regular visits provide more than just companionship. They:
- Offer comfort and reassurance in a new environment
- Reinforce your loved one’s sense of identity and belonging
- Provide opportunities to share meaningful activities and conversations
- Help you stay informed and involved in their care journey
Family involvement also builds trust between caregivers, residents, and loved ones, creating a stronger circle of support.
The First Few Weeks: Focus on Adjustment
The initial transition into memory care can be an emotional time. While it’s natural to want to visit frequently, sometimes too many visits early on can prolong adjustment.
- Frequent but short visits may help at the start—such as stopping in for a meal or an activity rather than staying all day.
- Allow time for your loved one to connect with staff and other residents. These new relationships are essential for their comfort and routine.
- Communicate with the caregiving team—they can guide you on how your visits are affecting your loved one’s adjustment.
At Silverado, our team supports families during this transition, helping create a visitation plan that feels right for everyone.
Finding the Right Balance
Once your loved one has settled in, the frequency of visits can be tailored to what works best for both of you.
- Weekly visits are common and provide ongoing connection without overwhelming your loved one’s routine.
- Short, consistent visits can often be more meaningful than fewer, lengthy ones.
- Special visits for activities—such as joining them for music therapy, a holiday celebration, or a meal—can make time together more enjoyable.
Most importantly, quality matters more than quantity. Even a short visit where you hold hands, share a memory, or enjoy a quiet moment can be deeply meaningful.
Supporting Engagement Beyond Visits
Visiting isn’t the only way to stay connected. Families can support loved ones between visits by:
- Sending cards, photos, or memory books
- Dropping off a favorite snack or comfort item
- Encouraging phone calls or video chats if appropriate
- Sharing updates with caregivers to help spark conversations with your loved one
Silverado communities encourage family involvement through events, activities, and open communication with staff.
What If Your Loved One Gets Upset After Visits?
Sometimes, visits can stir emotions, especially in the early stages of transition. This doesn’t mean you should stop visiting—it may just mean adjusting the timing, length, or type of interaction.
Tips include:
- Keeping visits calm and positive
- Choosing times of day when your loved one is most relaxed
- Talking with the care team for advice on how to make visits more comfortable
Our caregivers are trained to support residents and families during these moments, helping ensure visits remain meaningful experiences.
Final Thoughts
There is no “one-size-fits-all” answer to how often you should visit a loved one in memory care. What matters most is striking a balance that supports their adjustment, keeps them emotionally connected, and strengthens your relationship.
At Silverado, families are always welcome. We encourage regular visits, ongoing involvement, and meaningful engagement, because memory care is not just about supporting residents—it’s about supporting families, too.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Should I visit every day when my loved one first moves in?
Daily visits can sometimes make it harder for your loved one to adjust. Short, less frequent visits in the first few weeks may be more helpful.
2. Can visiting too much be a bad thing?
Yes. Too many visits early on can delay bonding with caregivers and other residents. Balance is important.
3. What if my loved one doesn’t seem to remember my visits?
Even if they don’t remember the details, the positive emotions and sense of comfort from your presence remain.
4. How can I make visits more meaningful?
Bring photos, enjoy activities together, or share simple routines like having coffee. Focus on connection, not conversation alone.
5. Does Silverado encourage family visits?
Absolutely. Families are considered partners in care, and we encourage regular visits and involvement in community life.
