What Factors Should I Consider When Choosing a Nursing Home for a Loved One?
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, there were 1.4 million nursing home residents in 2014. Additionally, the Family Caregiver Alliance reports that the five types of care facilities— adult daycare centers, home health agencies, hospices, residential care communities and nursing homes—assist more than 8 million people annually.
Unfortunately, not all nursing homes provide the same standards of care. The elderly are a vulnerable population, and physical, sexual, emotional and financial abuse are common, especially in long-term care facilities.
If a member of your family was mistreated in a nursing home, turn to The Dinizulu Law Group, Ltd. A Chicago elder abuse attorney will evaluate your case to determine if you have grounds for a claim against the at-fault staff member or facility. Call 312-384-1920 to schedule an initial consultation.
Let’s explore some of the factors you should consider when choosing a nursing home for your loved one:
- Cost
Your loved one probably has a fixed income, which means cost is a determining factor. Location plays a big role in the total cost of care at nursing homes, so if your budget is tight, consider long-term care facilities in areas that have a lower cost of living.
- Scope of Care
If your loved one has a medical condition that requires a specific treatment modality, make sure the homes you are considering provide access to such care. Choosing a nursing home that offers comprehensive care is a good idea even if your loved one does not have any major health issues because certain conditions could develop over time.
- Conditions
Is the facility clean and well maintained? Do the residents appear happy and healthy? If there are a few nursing homes at the top of your list, visit each one in person to assess the overall condition of each facility. Do your research to find the perfect place for your loved one, you could even check out places like Hospice Cincinnati to see what they offer.
- Layout
What is the layout of the nursing home, and how much space does each resident get? Will your loved one have a roommate?
Consider the layout of the nursing home, including the bathroom situation and the accessibility of the staff. If your loved one if not very social, would a facility with private rooms be better? If your loved one agrees to a roommate but there is conflict, what is the protocol for changing rooms?
- Staffing
What is the ratio of staff to residents at your top choice? Do the providers seem friendly and warm? Are they happy to show you around the nursing home?
If you are concerned about nursing home abuse, your main consideration should be the staff. How does the facility find its employees, and what are the requirements for working there? These are just a few of the questions you should ask the administrators at the nursing homes that you are considering.
If your loved one has been the victim of abuse at a long-term care facility, an elder abuse attorney from The Dinizulu Law Group, Ltd can help. Call 312-384-1920 to schedule an initial consultation with a Chicago nursing home abuse lawyer today. You can learn more about nursing home abuse claims in Illinois by visiting USAttorneys.com.
I think the article makes a good point about how you should look into the condition of the nursing home prior to selecting it for your loved one. I think the article makes a good point about how you should probably visit each care center to determine the conditions for yourself. I even think it would be wise to interviews the staff as well.
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