Visitor Information
Visiting Hours
Suggested visiting hours are between 11:00 a.m. and 8:30 p.m. While we encourage visits during these hours to allow our residents to enjoy their home and to help protect their privacy and dignity, we realize there may be circumstances in which family members and friends of loved ones may wish to visit during extended hours.
Visitor's Tips
Below are frequently asked questions about "proper etiquette." The guidelines provided are specific to D'Youville, but are common at most nursing homes
Are visits important?
Visits are very important and appreciated by most residents, even when the expected stay is short-term. Visits provide an opportunity to stay in touch, express emotions, share experiences, plan and to simply enjoy each other's company. We do not recommend visits from individuals who may be experiencing cold or flu symptoms.
How often should I visit?
Every resident and family is unique and the frequency of visits depends on a number of factors. For example, if family members live or work close to D'Youville, visits may be more frequent compared to those whose families live at a distance. Some family members have an easier time taking time off from work or their work hours coincide with visiting hours. Even if someone does not work, visits may depend on transportation, sitters for children, etc. There are many other factors that determine the frequency of visits. Each family member decides based on his or her own circumstances and the resident's need.
Although spur of the moment visits can be exciting, and they're certainly better than no visit, it's a good idea to let your loved one know when you are coming. Residents may be at therapy, a doctor's appointment or at one of their scheduled activities. With a planned visit, your loved one will have something to look forward to, be rested and have a free schedule.
What should I bring?
Families like to bring gifts and many residents enjoy them. Gifts can serve as a pleasant reminder of the visitor and visit. The best rule of thumb is to keep a gift small, personal and simple. Here are a few suggestions: flowers or a plant (with instructions for care); a book or favorite magazine; stationery, stamps, and address labels; and personal care items such as a favorite lotion (keeping in mind any skin allergies). We do not recommend gifts such as valuable jewelry. Other gifts such as clothing must be brought to the nurses' station for labeling. We suggest checking with nursing regarding food items as there may be dietary restrictions. For cleanliness and safety reasons, we do not recommend storing food in residents' rooms. But remember, the best gift of all is your visit itself!
What should I do once I'm there?
- Give a manicure or help with hair care.
- Bring a younger family member or a pet.
- Participate together in a scheduled activity.
- Work on a family tree or tape family stories.
- Celebrate birthdays, holidays, and special events.
- Listen to music or watch a favorite movie together.
- Go for a stroll or sit outside in one of the courtyards.
- Bring a friend who wouldn't be able to visit otherwise.
- Play a favorite gave such as checkers, cribbage or cards.
- Review the Activity calendar or the Monthly Messenger.
- During holidays, assist with writing cards and envelopes.
- Bring photos to share and/or work on a family photo album.
- Help organize personal items or clean out a closet or bureau.
- Sit by the bedside, hold your loved one's hand and tell/share stories.
- Read a newspaper, book or favorite magazine together.