Staying Connected — How Care Homes Support Family Relationships
Introduction
Choosing a care home is an emotional decision — both for the resident and their family. One common concern we hear at Wardside House is: “Will we still feel connected?” The answer is a resounding yes.
Today’s care homes are not just places to live — they’re places where relationships are nurtured, family ties are strengthened, and love continues to flourish.
1. Making Visits Meaningful
Visits are more than just check-ins — they’re opportunities to make memories.
At Wardside House we:
Offer flexible visiting hours so families can fit visits into their lives.
Provide welcoming, comfortable spaces for celebrations, quiet chats, and shared activities.
Host special family days that turn visits into joyous events.
Whether it’s a short cup of tea or a family dinner, we make every moment count.
2. Bringing Loved Ones Into Daily Life
Connection isn’t limited to visits. We encourage families to be part of everyday routines:
Join resident for lunch or afternoon activities
Attend garden walks or concerts
Share hobby moments — knitting, baking, music
These shared experiences help families stay embedded in the rhythm of each resident’s life.
3. Using Technology to Bridge the Miles
Not all loved ones live nearby — and that’s okay.
We support:
Regular video calls with smartphones, tablets, or laptops
Scheduled virtual family meetings
Technology becomes a tool for closeness, not distance.
4. Celebrating Every Occasion Together
Birthdays, anniversaries, cultural festivals — these days matter. At Wardside House:
We celebrate together with thoughtful events and family involvement.
We personalise occasions with what families love — music, food, photos.
We create traditions residents and families look forward to year after year.
These moments help honour life’s milestones and keep connection strong.
5. Emotional Support for Families
Supporting relationships means supporting the people who care about the resident too.
We offer:
Regular updates about health and wellbeing
Open communication channels with our care team
Emotional support and resources for families adjusting to transitions
We partner with families, not just care for residents.
Conclusion
Staying connected in later life matters — for residents and their loved ones. At Wardside House, we prioritise family relationships through meaningful visits, shared experiences, modern connection tools, and deep respect for emotional wellbeing.