Carolyn Dickinson of Cottonwood Heights, Utah recently faced a problem that many Americans face today. She needed a nursing home for her mother and she needed to find one fast. Doctors told her that her mother, Carol, who had two strokes in the span of two weeks, needed to be put in a nursing home for a chance of survival. Eventually, after visiting several nursing homes Carolyn was able to find a suitable one.
Carolyn, like many others in the US today could have used some guidance when deciding on the right nursing home for her loved one. Listed below are some helpful tips from the federal government, state inspectors, and others for picking the correct nursing home. Also, listed below are tips for when you visit your loved one to make sure they are being treated with the utmost care.
Tips for picking a nursing home:
Location — People are more likely to visit a relative if the nursing home is close by.
First impressions — Make sure the home is clean, free from unpleasant odors and has good lighting.
Staff — Watch how the staff interacts with residents. Are they warm and respectful? Do they knock when they enter rooms?
Longevity — The best performing nursing homes usually have stable leadership that has been on the job for at least two years. How long have the administrator and director of nursing worked at the home?
The Room — Make sure your loved one will be in a comfortable space. Will he or she have a window? Access to a telephone? Their choice of roommates? Are the rooms clean? Do they have windows?
Food — Have a meal at the home to check on the quality of the food and make sure the staff takes care of those who need help eating. Does the home offer alternative meals daily?
Customer Satisfaction — Just about every nursing home does an annual survey. Ask to see the results. Be wary of homes that won’t turn them over.
Tips for visiting a relative:
Weight and Nutrition — Keep track of your relative’s weight to make sure it is not dropping rapidly. Ask the staff if your loved one is eating properly.
Bruises and Bedsores — Look for any unusual bruising or bedsores. Make sure they are recorded and treated properly.
Medications — A review of inspection reports shows that homes sometimes have problems monitoring insulin and other meds.
Living Space — Check the bedroom. Is it clean? Are the sheets dirty? Make sure the call light button and fresh water are within reach.
Staff — Resolve any complaints quickly but also don’t accept bad care.
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