Looking for a nursing home can be challenging, but there are ways to navigate the process. Here are a few important factors to consider when choosing a nursing home.
Location of the Facility
It is important to understand where the facility is located—you never know when an emergency could happen. Factor in distances between the nursing home and the nearest hospitals and clinics. Though nursing homes are equipped with special health services, they are not a fully operational hospital. Also, consider the location of nearby family members so you know how long it would take to reach your loved one.
Size of the Population
Inquire about the number of people the facility serves. Knowing the size of the population will help you determine which setting is most appropriate for your loved one. If they are outgoing and extroverted, they may want to have a larger crowd around them. If they are shy or reclusive, a quieter setting may be best.
Licensures and Certifications
Knowing that a nursing home exists is one thing. Understanding that is it fully certified in various health insurance and licensed by the state is quite another. Seeing the scope of their options and what provisions they have been licensed to serve can help you in your search.
Special Services
Many nursing homes understand that their clients are limited in their ability to travel or move around, so they provide supplemental health and entertainment services. Some common health-related programs include memory care, exercise and wellness, and mental health counseling, among other things. As for entertainment services, nursing homes differ in what they offer based on their resources and space. But it is common to have weekly events such as animal visits, movie nights, and small concerts.
Quality Staff
It is important to get a feel for the quality of the staff. If you see that they are caring and focused on their clients, you can trust the nursing home’s operations. However, if you notice a poor level of care and inattentive staff, you may want to reconsider your options. There are many telltale signs of nursing home negligence, so be aware before you make your choice.
Overall Cost
The final thing to consider when selecting a nursing home is the cost. Between insurance coverages and your loved one’s savings, you need to calculate a budget. While you always want your loved one to have the best environment possible, it may not be financially feasible to select the fanciest option.
Understanding the factors to consider when choosing a nursing home can help you make the best choice for your family. The right nursing home will be the best combination of care, positivity, and community.
