The Nursing Home Decision
5. Speak to the social services worker. Find out what she/he is there for. Many social services workers ensure that your loved one is being treated well.
6. Look for a safe environment. Wandering often occurs in nursing homes. Make sure that there is some kind of safety device. If there isn't, you may want to consider another home. Good quality homes will have electronic devices (or alarms), on the doors so that residents cannot walk outside. However, do make sure that your loved one will be able to go outside whether it is inside a special area or with a staff member. Being cooped up all day is not healthy.
7. Notice the odor as you walk in the home. Remember that these facilities handle incontinence, so a slight urine smell is not always bad. However, you do not want it to be overpowering. You will be able to tell the difference as soon as you walk in the door.
8. Be sure the facility is licensed. This license should be visible. If you cannot see it, ask to see it. if the facility is not licensed, do not place your loved one there.
9. If you are unsatisfied with a home after your loved one is placed, you have a right to remove your loved one. Give your loved one a transition period of 2-3 weeks before you make a decision. If you feel the home is mistreating your loved one, remove them instantly.
To assist you further, I have included several links concerning the selection of a nursing home. The nursing home decision is one of the most important decisions that will be made by a caregiver. That is why it is crucial to research several nursing homes.
This site includes nursing home selection tips, needs assessment quiz, and financial information.
"Advice, information and answers to questions in your cause and How to get the very best long-term care for Mom & Dad." This site includes information about Medicare and Medicaid as well as many other frequently asked questions about long term care.
This page is part of my web site, The Elderly Place. I have listed several tips that will be helpful when researching nursing homes. They are listed out with brief examples to guide you further.
If you would like to start a
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