Hello Forevercare

My niece has Schizophrenia affect (sp?).

I'm guessing you're referring to schizoaffective disorder? Generally speaking, it refers to individuals who exhibit some symptoms of schizophrenia (i.e. hallucinations) as coupled with a mood disorder (i.e. depression or mania).

She is coming for a visit and I want her to be happy and comfortable here. How can I make her feel at home?

Your best bet is to ask her directly. If she's living with her parents or a partner, you can ask them for suggestions as well. As a general guideline I'd say you don't have to worry about making much fuss -- treat her as you would any other potential guest. However, depending on where she is in her recovery process, she may appreciate the opportunity to have a private space she can retreat to if she is feeling stressed. For this reason, a private bedroom may be preferred to the couch in the family room. Also, she may not be in social butterfly mode so ask her before planning any social events such as sight-seeing or family gatherings.

I don't want to frighten her away but I want to make sure she takes her meds.

If she's an adult and if she finds the medication to be helpful, she'll probably take it without any prompting. When she arrives you could perhaps ask her what her medication schedule is and also ask her if she would like you to remind her. You might also ask if there are any dietary restrictions you need to be aware of in regard to meal planning. Take your cues from her answers.

I'd like to add something else, she has shaved off all her hair. She has done this many times, is it a part of her illness or stress? She also has pirceings. I love my niece and want to understand this illness and to help her.

Piercings seem to be a popular trend among many young people these days although the activity is not associated with any schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder -- mostly, it's a preference having to do with one's chosen form of personal self-expression. If you're uncomfortable with her piercings and shaved head I suggest you avoid bringing up the subject. If she wants to talk about her experiences and you're comfortable doing so, I suggest you listen as you're capable and resist trying to label her experience according to your own terms. She may welcome the opportunity to talk about and share her preferences, choices and experience but she also may prefer to keep these things to herself. If in doubt, you can ask her if she'd like to talk about it.

Overall, do your best to relax and enjoy the visit with your niece.