Elder care concerns have reached astronomical proportions with no sign of lessening as baby boomers either take care of aging parents or become in need of care themselves. Nursing home care becomes a very real possibility. What is the best way to choose the right facility for you or a loved one?
There are some basics that need to be considered when choosing a skilled nursing care facility. First concerns to ask about the nursing home are:
Is it licensed?
Is it in the process of being sanctioned or fined?
Has it passed government inspections?
Does it have unresolved complaints?
Are there Medicaid certified beds available?
Is there a waiting period?
Does it accept patients who have Alzheimer’s or other dementias?
You will also want to be concerned about the emotional support provided by the staff of the facility you choose. Are there counselors and/or social services available? Are there social activities provided that will keep your parent interested in other people and life in general?
Is there a group of fellow crafters who enjoy your parent’s favorite hobby? If your parent is an introvert, is he or she expected to be out of character most of the time by participating in activities that may be uncomfortable?
Does the facility accept Medicaid patients? If you may need a Medicaid facility in the future, it is best to choose one from the start of your choosing a nursing home.
Pay two visits to any facility in which you are interested. The first visit should be a planned tour. The second visit should be unannounced. Notice if the staff looks overwhelmed with duties or if they have pleasant dispositions. Is the place clean? Ask if you can visit with the residents during an activity or plan to eat lunch with them to check out the food.
Do your due diligence to avoid having to move your parent because of undesirable qualities of a skilled nursing facility.