What should policies include regarding visitation hours?

The inclusion of minimum visiting hours in facility policies is essential for establishing a baseline for visitation rights. This ensures that residents have guaranteed opportunities to receive visitors during certain times, promoting social interaction and emotional support, which are crucial aspects of overall health and well-being. Minimum visitation hours provide a structure that helps manage visitor flow while respecting the needs of both residents and the facility's operational capabilities.

While maximum number of visitors, specific days for visits, and identification requirements for guests can also be relevant aspects of visitation policies, they may impose additional restrictions that are not always necessary or beneficial for the residents. The focus on minimum visiting hours aligns more closely with the objective of enhancing resident engagement and supporting family connections, which is a fundamental expectation in health care settings.