How to make the most of visits

Careful planning can help you effectively use your time with your family member and support a primary caregiver. Plans might include:

• Setting aside quality time. Plan to spend time with your family member doing relaxing and enjoyable things unrelated to caregiving, such as playing games, listening to music, going for walks, watching movies or visiting friends.
• Supporting the primary caregiver. Ask the primary caregiver what you can do to help during a visit and how to give the caregiver a break from responsibilities.
• Observing. Note how well your family member is doing with daily tasks, grooming, eating and communicating.
• Attending appointments. Ask if you can attend doctor appointments during the visit to stay informed about health and treatment plans. Meet with lawyers or financial advisers when appropriate.
• Checking in with others. Talk to the primary caregiver, friends or neighbors about their impressions of how the person is doing.
• Avoiding distractions. As much as possible, use your visits to focus on the needs of the family member and primary caregiver.