When it comes time to look at care options for your elderly loved one, you may be flooding with different emotions. It’s something that nobody likes to think about. However, as we age, it can become the best choice for everyone involved.
Once you’ve decided that a nursing home is the best option, you need to start looking at facilities. This can be a lengthy process, so you must know what to watch out for during your visits.
Below, we will discuss some of the things you will need to consider when choosing a nursing home for your elderly loved one.
Want to learn more? Then let’s get started.
Staffing
One of the first aspects you’ll want to look at when viewing a nursing facility is its staffing. Of course, you’ll want your loved one to be taken care of effectively, and that can be challenging if it’s a large place without enough members.
Ask about the staff-resident ratio during both the day and night. You’ll also want to pay attention to how you were treated during your tour. Did the staff stop and talk to you? Were they welcoming or cold? The last thing you want is to deal with an unsupportive team.
Also Read: How to Care for Your Elder Ones: A Checklist to Follow
Activities
Next comes one of the most critical parts – activities. If your loved one is going to be moving away from their home into a scheduled facility, they should be able to enjoy themselves!
Alongside the traditional activities that are offered, such as movie nights and arts and crafts, you want to check for tours, visits, and religious services. There should also be opportunities for residents to celebrate events.
Reputation
A facility may seem lovely on the outside but could be hiding some very dark secrets. Therefore, it’s essential to research their reputation and history so that you know your loved one will be as safe as possible.
That being said, there are some instances where you won’t know anything is wrong until it happens. Nursing home abuse should be taken very seriously, and it’s important to know that you can seek help and support. Check out Lamber Goodnow for more information.
Food
Food may seem like a minor thing when considering care for your elder ones, but it’s crucial. How would you feel if you were stuck eating the same bad meals every single day?
Some facilities have a set menu, while others have various options that residents can choose from. There may also be areas where capable residents can grab a snack and make coffee.
Location
Another vital thing to take a look at when choosing a facility is its location. For example, if you want to make regular visits, a nursing home over an hour away may not be the best choice.
Although, if the facility is much better than those close by, it may be something you will put up with. It all depends on your specific situation.
Schedule
All nursing homes will have a schedule. While this is important, you also want to check how flexible the service is.
For instance, what activities are available if your loved one doesn’t want to participate in what is prepared? Also, are there visiting hours that could restrict when you can see them?
It’s essential to know these things so that you can be sure your family member has the best care possible. They should never be forced to do something they don’t want to.
Additional Services
Every aged care home is different, and each come with their own services. If your loved one requires extensive care, such as in a dementia ward, this is another aspect you will need to think about.
If their condition deteriorates over time, this could mean moving them to another facility altogether. Therefore, it may be worth choosing one with multiple care options early on to save this from happening.
Loved One’s Input
Finally, alongside all of the above, it’s essential to ask for your loved one’s input if they are capable of giving it. In most cases, they may be reluctant to go into a nursing home, but often it’s for the best.
Making sure that you include them in the final decision can help with the acceptance. This is their choice too.
Final Words
And that’s it! By following the above, you should be able to find the most appropriate nursing home. Just remember to support your loved one and maintain regular visits. This will help them adapt to their new home and keep their mental health in check.
