Visitation policies at aged care homes in Perth are an essential part of maintaining the wellbeing and social connection of residents. These policies are shaped by government regulations, internal risk management procedures, and a strong emphasis on the rights of older individuals to maintain meaningful relationships.
Overview of Visitation Guidelines
In most aged care home Perth facilities, visiting hours are flexible and designed to accommodate family routines while ensuring resident safety and rest. Common visiting windows fall between 10am and 8pm, though many homes will allow visits outside these hours by prior arrangement. For residents receiving palliative or end-of-life care, 24-hour visitation access is typically granted.
Visitor Limits and Safety Measures
While there are generally no hard limits on the number of visitors, facilities may request that visits be staggered or limited in size to avoid disruption. To reduce infection risks, particularly for residents with compromised health, visitors may be asked to:
- Sign in and out
- Present proof of recent flu or COVID-19 vaccination
- Undergo temperature checks or rapid tests during outbreak periods
- Wear masks or sanitise hands upon entry
These protocols are still in place in many aged care Perth locations as a precaution, even after pandemic restrictions have eased.
Types of Visits Permitted
Residents are usually able to receive guests in a variety of settings, including:
- Their private rooms
- Outdoor garden spaces
- Designated family lounges or quiet rooms
Homes with pet-friendly policies may also allow short pet visits, and children are generally welcome provided they are supervised.
Special Circumstances
In the event of a health outbreak or emergency lockdown, visitation rules may tighten temporarily. However, most aged care providers make provisions for essential care visits, especially for those in vulnerable conditions or during emotional distress. Providers are encouraged to maintain communication alternatives such as video calls when in-person visits are restricted.
Resident Rights & Family Engagement
Residents have a legal right to maintain personal and social relationships under the Aged Care Quality Standards. Visitation is not a privilege; it is a key element of person-centred care. Many aged care providers encourage regular contact and involvement in care planning, ensuring families stay informed and engaged in the wellbeing of their loved ones.
Preparing for a Visit
To ensure a smooth visit, families should:
- Contact the home in advance to check for any updates on visiting hours or restrictions
- Respect care schedules and meal times
- Keep noise levels low and minimise group size during busy periods
Open communication with staff helps maintain a supportive environment for both visitors and residents.
Conclusion
Visitation policies in Perth’s aged care homes aim to preserve the health, dignity, and connection of every resident. While certain safeguards are in place to protect against risk, the underlying priority is clear: to keep families connected and engaged in the lives of their loved ones. When choosing an aged care provider, reviewing visitation procedures should be a core part of your decision-making process.
For those seeking trusted care options, understanding how a facility handles visits is just as important as the standard of medical or personal care offered.