Nursings Homes - How To Choose Safely
Often when a loved one needs to go into a nursing home, it is a last minute decision. Usually, there is an event, such as a fall or a hospitalization, that triggers the need for "expert" care. How do you choose the safest place for your loved one on short notice?
1. Seek out experts, such as social workers, doctors, or nurses, to discuss their recommendations and experiences. You may also want to consult friends or other family members with loved ones currently in nursing homes to see if that facility might be a good fit for your family member.
2. You can contact Eldercare Locator at (800) 677-1116. Eldercare Locator can connect you with the appropriate agency which will have a listing of nursing homes in your area. There are also Ombudsmen that can be contacted for specific questions about facilities you are interested in.
3. Once you have reached a decision on a facility, call and ask for a tour of the facility. Be sure and check the cleanliness of the kitchen and restrooms. You should ask to see the inside of the refrigerator. Is the refrigerator clean? Is food covered and look appetizing? Is the restroom clean? Does it have hot water? Where are the residents? Are they left alone in their rooms or are they in common areas? Are staff paying attention to them? Is there some kind of group program or activity going on to help keep them stimulated? Are restraints being used on patients?
4. Go online to www.Medicare.gov and pull up the inspection reports for the facility you are interested in. Do they have any deficiencies? If so, what type? Was anyone's life put in jeopardy? As the Administrator about what you reviewed. Is the Administrator up front and honest about the inspection reports or cagey?
5. Once your loved one becomes a resident at the facility, plan frequent visits at a variety of times. Random vists will encourage the staff to care for your loved one in the best possible way as they will never know when you will be arriving and you will get to know the facility staff and the methods of operation so you can watch what is going on. Plan on attending family care meetings and do not be afraid to express your ideas about what needs to be improved.
