It can be one of the hardest decisions to make, placing a loved one in a nursing home facility. There are so many things to consider, such as cost, quality of care and whether or not it will meet a family member’s physical, emotional and medical needs. Knowing what to look for and understanding some of the most important issues can make the task much easier.
What to Look for in a Nursing Home Facility
1) Recommendations: When a trusted friend or relative can recommend a nursing home, this can ease concerns. Experience with a facility can go a long way.
2) The staffing/resident ratio: It’s important to know that a loved one will receive proper care. But if the ratio is unbalanced, this may be an indication that the quality of care isn’t going to be up to par.
3) The environment: Are the employees friendly? Does there appear to be positive interactions with the residents? Also pay close attention to the behavior of residents. Do any appear frightened or unhappy?
4) The facility’s cleanliness: Is the facility sanitary? Do the residents look clean? Also look for equipment that is broken or unsafe conditions, such as rugs on which someone could slip.
5) Enriching activities: Find out what types of activities are available for the residents. Getting a feel for what a resident’s daily life is going to be like will help when determining if the facility is a good fit.
6) Ability to meet special needs of a resident: It could be that a loved one has special dietary needs or medications need to be taken at a certain time. Ask how any unique needs will be met.
7) Verify the facility is licensed. Certain state and local government standards are set for licensed nursing home facilities. Although this doesn’t guarantee the facility meets them, the facility should always be licensed.
If your loved one has been injured in a nursing home facility, Gacovino, Lake & Associates can help. Call us today: (800) 246-4878. And check out more of our tips on choosing a nursing home.
