There comes a point in time when your loved one may need to move to a nursing home. At this point, it’s crucial to find the best home for them so that they don’t end up experiencing a lifestyle downgrade. With as many nursing homes in existence as there are, you may find it tough to pick the best one. That said, here are some of the things that you should know when choosing a nursing home for your loved one to ensure that you pick the right one.
The Staffing of the Nursing Home
To start off, you may want to find out what the staffing of a nursing home is like. Keep in mind that, according to data from the Payroll-Based Journal, almost 75% of nursing homes failed to meet the expected staffing levels for registered nurses recommended by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services in 2017 and 2018.
You need to be sure that the nursing home you choose for your loved one is properly staffed. A facility with an adequately sized team will help ensure that your loved one receives proper care.
The Amenities That Are Offered
Be sure to find out what specific amenities are offered at any nursing home that you’re considering. Make sure that the nursing home has the necessary facilities that your loved one needs. These could be things like medical supplies and social amenities, the details of which you should be aware of from the start so that you know whether the facility is worth paying for.
Keep in mind that you may have to visit the facility in person to find out what it’s actually like and get an overall feel for the living environment. For example, check to see whether they leave windows and doors closed for safety and comfort. Note that anywhere from 25% to 30% of warm air can be lost through a drafty window, according to the Department of Energy.
The Costs of the Facility
The right facility is one that you can comfortably pay for, so be sure to do proper research on the pricing of nursing homes in your area. As you do this research, try to choose a home that’s in line with the average local costs. For example, the cost of a shared or semi-private room in a nursing home in New Jersey is about $11,000 per month, according to Porzio Planning.
Come up with a figure that you can comfortably pay, and remember to make allowances for emergencies and other unexpected scenarios.
Your Loved One’s Needs
Last but not least, you need to be sure that the nursing facility you choose for your loved one meets their personal wants and needs. That said, take some time to discuss your loved one’s priorities with them so that you can get a good idea of their expectations. This way, you can more easily choose a nursing home that doesn’t alter their lifestyle in a negative way.
Moving to a nursing home is a big life change, so it’s important to do plenty of research before your loved one makes this transition. After all, you want them to be able to enjoy their golden years to the fullest in a pleasant and cheerful environment. If you obtain the above information before you choose a nursing home for your loved one, you have a great chance of picking the best option for their needs.
Start the process early so that you can be fully prepared when it comes time for their relocation. Taking the right steps early will help provide peace of mind later on.
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