Picking a nursing home for your loved one can be overwhelming. There are numerous choices you have to make and financial decisions that can make nursing home selections a time of high stress. Regardless of your endless to-do list, it is imperative that you approach the process as prepared as possible so that you can ensure you pick the right nursing home.
First, consider the level of care your loved one needs and what type of care is most important to them. Almost all nursing home residents need some sort of assistance with their day-to-day activities. Some may require physical therapy while others need specialized care for dementia – these specific care needs will help you narrow down the list of possible facilities. You may also want to consider any religious affiliations or social activities offered at the nursing home – so that it is as suitable as possible for your loved one.
Visit the Nursing Home More Than Once
You should visit several nursing homes to get a broader perspective on the options available in Louisville and the surrounding areas. You will also want to verify if the nursing home has their Medicare certifications if your loved one will be billing via Medicare insurance. The certifications mean that the nursing home has passed the independent required inspection – ask to see that inspection document to verify it is valid.
You should visit the nursing home you are considering more than once and at different times of the day. A few things to look for during those visits include:
- The appearance of the patients – are they well groomed, clean, etc.?
- See how much staff is there during the week as well as on the weekends.
- Make sure the facility has enough staff members for each patient in the facility.
- Ensure the facility is well-maintained at all times and that there are no foul odors – which may indicate poor maintenance.
- Inquire about their food and even ask to sample that food. Ask about what dietary considerations are used when creating their menus and if they have specialized menus for those suffering from dietary restrictions.
Lastly, make sure that the nursing home location is convenient for you and other family members to visit frequently. Also, any emergency contacts listed with the nursing home should be within a short driving distance from the facility.
Be on the Lookout for Signs of Neglect or Abuse
When you visit your loved one, always be on the lookout for signs of nursing home neglect or abuse – such as bedsores, unexplained cuts/bruises, malnutrition/dehydration, etc. If you recognize any of the symptoms of abuse, remove your loved one and contact the authorities right away.
Speak with a Louisville Attorney Regarding Nursing Home Abuse
Nursing homes are often understaffed and underfunded, but that is no excuse for the poor treatment some facilities give to their residents. If your loved one is the victim of nursing home abuse, contact Gladstein Law Firm, PLLC today. We have helped numerous nursing home abuse victims receive compensation for their injuries, pain and suffering. Call us for a free consultation or fill out an online contact form with your questions.
