The Caring Corner®
Selecting a Skilled Nursing Facility for Your Loved One
Choosing a skilled nursing facility is a difficult decision, but it is important to choose one that will provide your loved one with the care they need. Here are some tips on how to pick the right facility:
- Talk to friends and family. Ask them if they have any recommendations for nursing homes.
- Call different nursing homes. Ask them about their rates, their services, and their staff.
- Visit the facilities. Look around and see if the place is clean and comfortable. Talk to the staff and residents and get a feel for the atmosphere.
- Ask questions during your visit. Ask about the facility’s policies and procedures. Ask about the staff’s qualifications and experience. Ask about the facility’s activities and programs.
- Consider your loved one’s needs. What type of care does your loved one need? Does the facility offer the services they need?
- Consider your loved one’s preferences. What kind of atmosphere does your loved one prefer? Does the facility meet their needs?
- Consider your budget. How much can you afford to spend on nursing home care?
- Consider your location. How far are you willing to drive to visit your loved one?
Once you have considered all of these factors, you will be able to narrow down your choices and choose the right skilled nursing facility for your loved one.
Here are some additional tips:
- Do your research. There are many resources available to help you find information about nursing homes. You can use the internet, contact your local Area Agency on Aging, or talk to your doctor or hospital social worker.
- Consider your loved one’s preferences. What kind of atmosphere do they prefer? What kind of activities do they enjoy?
- Visit several facilities. This will give you a chance to see different places and get a feel for the different options available.
- Ask questions. Don’t be afraid to ask questions about anything that is important to you. The staff should be happy to answer your questions and provide you with information.
- Trust your gut. If you have a bad feeling about a place, don’t go there. There are plenty of other options available.
If you need caregivers to assist with home care or elder care in Durham or Chapel Hill, call us. Experienced caregivers and CNAs can provide simple companionship or may help people with dementia, Alzheimer’s, on hospice and bed bound patients. From a few hours per visit to 24/7 care.
