The process of choosing a nursing facility for a beloved older member of the family is not an easy one. There are many factors to consider when selecting a nursing home, and these factors can make all the difference in determining what kind of care your loved one will receive.
Let’s explore these factors in detail, from finances to senior living arrangements, to make sure you make the right decision for your loved one. You might need the help of a senior-living advisor to make this process easier for you.
1. Cost
The cost of nursing home care can be prohibitive, and it’s important to consider what you can afford before making a decision. Nursing homes can range in price from a few hundred dollars per month to tens of thousands of dollars per month, so it’s important to do your research and find the right fit for your budget.
2. Location
Location is another important consideration when choosing a nursing home. You’ll want to find one close to family and friends, in case they need to visit often. You’ll also want to make sure the nursing home is situated in a safe neighborhood.
3. Size
Nursing homes come in all shapes and sizes, so it’s important to choose one that feels comfortable for your loved one. Some nursing homes are located on sprawling campuses, while others are housed in apartment-style buildings.
4. Senior Living Arrangements
Nursing homes offer a variety of living arrangements, so it’s crucial to find the right fit for your loved one. They can be found as stand-alone buildings or attached to hospitals and clinics, and they can house residents in private rooms or shared spaces with roommates.
5. Services Offered
Nursing homes vary widely when it comes to what services they offer their residents, so you’ll want to do your research if you’re looking for something specific like rehab care or Alzheimer’s care. Make sure you review the available services thoroughly before deciding which facility is suitable for your loved one.
6. Activities and Amenities
Nursing homes also vary widely in the activities and amenities they offer their patients, so you’ll want to do some research about what’s available at each facility before making a decision. Some nursing homes offer scheduled outings and field trips, while others provide on-site gymnasiums and gaming rooms.
Basic necessities like laundry and housekeeping services can also vary from home to home, so be sure to ask if any of these services are extra or included when choosing between nursing homes for your loved one.
7. Food Services
The quality of resident meals is another important factor in determining which nursing home is best for your family member because it impacts their daily lives. You’ll want to find a nursing home that serves healthy, nutritious meals and snacks to keep your loved ones feeling their best throughout the day.
8. Reputation
The reputation of a nursing home is worth considering, as well. If you’re looking at two facilities that seem equally comfortable for your loved one, then you can look into their reputations to help decide which is the right choice for your loved one’s care needs.
9. Top Rated Facilities
Another good polling method is Top Rated Facilities. These companies have been around for a while and have a significant number of clients to do a good sampling of people who have used these services so that they can report on their findings. What you’ll get is a detailed report on what you’re looking for in a nursing home and why it’s crucial.
10. Communication
During your research, keep track of which facilities have been most helpful when they’ve returned your phone calls or emails with questions or concerns about their nursing homes. Not only will this help you choose between multiple facilities, but it will also give you an idea of how easy each one is to work with once you have selected the right facility for your loved one’s needs.
11. Reviews
Reading reviews can be a great way to determine where to place your loved one in a nursing home. You’ll want to find reviews from people who had similar needs to your family member, and you’ll also want to look at reviews from friends and other people in the community.
12. Bed Availability
Bed availability is something else you’ll want to keep in mind when choosing a nursing home. Even if your loved one is only partially bedridden, you’ll want to find a facility that has enough beds for them in case of an emergency.
When choosing a nursing home for a loved one, there are many factors to consider. By taking the time to research your options and weigh all the critical factors, you can be sure that you’re making the best decision for your family member’s care.
