The decision to place a loved one in a nursing home is rarely easy. Even when it is in the person’s best interests, family may feel conflicted about the process.
You may also have concerns about the level of care your family member receives. The highlights the importance of carefully choosing a nursing home, which provides both you and your elderly loved one with peace of mind. Here are a few things you can do to make an informed decision.
Review online ratings
There are numerous websites that offer ratings of medical facilities, including nursing homes. These ratings will alert you to any potential red flags and other issues. They can also provide information on what a specific facility does well. Review sites are a good jumping-off point for your search, as they provide unbiased information.
Ask friends and family
While online reviews provide lots of useful information, your loved ones are also a good source. Ask those who have elderly family members about their nursing home search and if there are any facilities they would recommend. If your family members cannot provide insight, you can also consult your neighbors regarding any local facilities.
Schedule a visit to the facility
Once you have narrowed down your list to the best possible candidates, contact the administrators at each facility. Ask if it is possible to pay an in-person visit, which can provide information essential to your selection. Pay close attention to the quality and cleanliness of the facility. Also, pay attention to the other residents living there. A lack of grooming or clean clothes indicates that staff are not as attentive as they could be.
If you have any doubts, continue your search until you find a suitable location. Keep in mind that there are many high-quality nursing homes out there that take care of residents very seriously.