There are many steps to take in choosing a nursing home. We know that this process can seem overwhelming. This is a big decision and you want to make sure that you are making the right one. Here are 10 tips to help you find the best nursing home for your loved one. By considering these steps, you can make sure that your loved one is happy in the nursing home.
Research a Few Homes
This is a good step to take before you heavily consider one home. Most nursing homes have websites with a lot of information on them. Go to the websites for a few homes in your area. See what kind of services these homes offer, take a look at pictures, check out visiting hours, etc. Just from this initial search, you should be able to weed out the homes that won’t work for your loved one.
Get Advice
Talk to friends or colleagues that have used a nursing home. They might be able to give you insight into the process. They can also help you pick good homes from bad ones based on their experiences.
Consider Your Loved One’s Needs
Even the best nursing homes might not be right for your loved one. If your loved one has a specific medical need and help isn’t offered by a home, exclude this home from your search. The home might be great, but it won’t be right for your loved one.
Consider Your Family’s Finances
What can you afford in a nursing home? Does your loved one have Medicare or Medicaid that will help pay for the costs of the home? While you want to make sure that your loved one gets the best care, money matters. Make sure that you can afford the homes that you are looking at.
Visit a Few Nursing Homes
Once you’ve narrowed down your search, visit your top few nursing homes. Looking at a home on a website is a great start, but it is no substitute for visiting the home. When you get there, you can see what it is really like. You and your loved one should make a decision after visiting.
Talk to a Staff Member
When you visit the nursing home, take some time to speak with a staff member. Come prepared with a few questions about the home. Many staff members will be happy to talk to you and answer your questions. Use the information they provide in your final decision.
Talk to a Resident
To get a sense for the way residents are treated, talk to a resident. Ask questions about how the residents feel about the home. Your loved one can also socialize with a few residents to make sure that they will get alone with people in the home.
Talk to a Manager
Talk to someone in a managerial position at the nursing home. This person can give you information on the way the home is run and answer your more technical questions.
Have a Family Meeting
Sit down with your family and talk about your nursing home options. As a family, you can make this decision. Consider each person’s concerns, especially those of your loved one who will be living in the home.
Consult an Attorney
Before making a final decision or signing any contracts, talk to a lawyer. A lawyer will make sure that your loved one’s rights are protected before they get to the home.
These are just a few tips for determining the right nursing home for your loved one. For more information on this process, be sure to contact a lawyer.
