How To Support Someone in Skilled Nursing

Tips for Supporting Your Loved One

Whether someone you know is spending time in a skilled nursing facility to recover from surgery, participate in physical therapy or receive long-term care, it’s helpful to find ways to encourage them as they heal and recover. 

Here are just a few tips on how you can show a loved one in skilled nursing that you care: 

Visit regularly
There’s nothing like personal contact to help someone heal, and spending time together is a wonderful way to show your family member that you haven’t forgotten about them.

Listen well
Many skilled nursing patients are facing difficult life changes or challenges. If you’re willing to be there and listen to them as they share their struggles, they often feel more connected, engaged and respected. 

Connect with technology
If you can’t be there in person, there are all kinds of wonderful ways to stay in touch through technology. Consider scheduling virtual visits through apps like Skype and FaceTime.

Bring your positivity
Because skilled nursing can be a challenge for some patients, guests who maintain a positive attitude can play an important role in providing comfort to those who are experiencing emotionally challenging times. 

Bring personal mementos
Whether you want to bring family photographs, a favorite blanket or another small personal item from home, these reminders from home encourage patients and make them feel more comfortable in their space. 

Break bread
Sharing meals has been proven time and time again to draw people together and help build positive emotional connections. This is especially valuable when someone is recovering from an injury or surgery.