You may have given the best care to your elederly at home but may still encounter a situation where you may need to move our aging parents or relatives in a nursing facility. Whether putting them temporarily or for a long time, this decision is not easy to make.
You want to ensure you select the best nursing home possible so your loved ones receive the best care and attention they need.
While determining which nursing home is best for your loved one will vary depending on their condition, there are a few fundamental factors to bear in mind.
Type of Care Needed
Different nursing homes offer different types of care, from long-term care for those with chronic conditions to respite or short-term care for those who need assistance after an injury or hospital stay.
Be sure to choose a nursing facility that offers the type of care your loved one needs and that they are certified or trained to provide it.
Reputation
The most important factor in choosing a nursing home is undoubtedly its reputation and reviews.
Talk to other families who have used that using home and read online reviews. You can also contact your local Better Business Bureau to see if any complaints have been filed against the nursing home.
Staff and Facilities
When visiting nursing homes, take note of the staff-to-patient ratio and how they interact with the residents. A promising sign is that the staff knows most residents by name and medical conditions.
Some homes will also have on-site physical therapy experts, while others may offer basic caregivers without professional training. Once again, this will come down to the needs of your relative.
Make sure the facility has a doctor or nurse on staff at all times and that they are easily accessible to residents.
Apart from cleanliness, also ensure the staff is polite, helpful, and attentive by talking to them directly.
The Location
The nursing home’s location and proximity to your home will matter. If you live far away, you may not be able to visit as often as you’d like, so it is essential to ensure the nursing home you select is in a safe and convenient location.
Nursing homes are usually situated in more rural and tranquil locations to provide a comforting and serene atmosphere. Indeed check how fast you can drive or fly to the nursing home from your location in case of an emergency.
Size of the Nursing Home
Smaller nursing homes may provide a more intimate and personal care experience, while larger homes may offer more amenities and activities with limited individual care. Depending on the condition of your elderly loved one, you’ll need to decide which size is more appropriate.
Cost Does Matter
Last but not least, cost matters. Not only the overall cost, be sure to find out what is included in the monthly rate and whether there are hidden fees for services or amenities.
It is not necessary that a more expensive nursing home would provide superior care, so do your homework.
In the initial days of your loved one’s stay, it is also essential to visit often and get feedback from both them and the staff to ensure they are happy and comfortable. Check up on them frequently, some care homes may use sophisticated assisted living softwares, so inquire if you can get access to it so you know what your elderly are doing on a daily basis.
Sending your loved ones to a nursing home is difficult, but if you bear these factors in mind, you can be sure you’re making the best choice for their care.