To understand the need for third-party visitation rights for terminally ill or elderly parents and their adult children, it helps to understand how the visits benefit the vulnerable adult, as well as his or her family.

Elderly and terminally ill adults need visitors in order to stay healthy longer. Conversely, family members need to have access to the vulnerable adult so they can gain an understanding for their loved one's physical, mental and emotional condition.

How do third-party visitation rights for terminally ill or elderly parents and their adult children benefit the vulnerable adult?

• Need for closure is met
• Helps distract the vulnerable adult from his or her illness
• Makes the vulnerable adult feel loved and appreciated
• Helps to eliminate feelings of loneliness or despair
• Advance knowledge of a visit gives the vulnerable adult something to look forward to
• Provides the vulnerable adult access to a "whistle blower," a trusted ally who can monitor and report mistreatment of any kind to the proper authorities

How do third-party visitation rights for terminally ill or elderly parents and their adult children benefit the vulnerable adult's family members?

• Need for closure is met
• Prepares family members for various stages of the illness
• Provides a realistic view of the vulnerable adult's physical, mental and emotional condition
• Direct communication with the vulnerable adults helps dispel concerns about the vulnerable adult's environment