In mid-June, Illinois nursing homes were allowed to have visitors. Many nursing homes began the process of establishing the protocol immediately for these visits. If you have not done so, now may be a good time to reserve a date and time for such a visit.
You will need to contact the nursing home and schedule the visit. All visits are outdoors and there will be limited space. Therefore, the nursing home will need to know in advance the number of visitors per day.
Be prepared to wear a mask or face covering. It has been communicated to me by other families that you should expect your loved one to also be wearing some type of mask. In one instance, a relative informed me that due to her father previously testing positive for Covid-19 he was wearing a
mask, face shield, gloves, and a gown.
You should also be prepared to physically distance yourself from other visitors and your loved one. The nursing homes are screening visitors for fevers, potential exposures and if they have been experiencing symptoms.
For many, this will be the first instance you have actually seen your father, mother or sibling and you want to know if they’re in good health. What should you look for? You should pay attention to their appearance and mannerisms.
Do they appear lethargic? Is their speech lucid? Do they appear to be dehydrated or gaunt? Are they complaining of pain anywhere on their bodies? If they appear to be in pain while seated and complaining of backside pain, they could have a bedsore. Ask if they are receiving their medication in a regular and timely fashion.
How is their personal hygiene? Are the shaved, hair combed or brushed, nails clipped and appeared to have bathed? Are there are noticeable bruises or cuts on their skin?
These are just examples to give you guidance. Should you have any questions or concerns before or after your visit, be sure to call us at (312) 888-0848. We want to help you prepare for your visit and address your concerns and observations after you have done so.
Kevin T. Yen
Strom & Associates, Ltd.
