As our loved ones begin to age, finding the right nursing home for them can be an arduous, emotional, and time-consuming process. Health, safety, and accessibility, especially, are only a few of the important factors to consider along with others brought on by the pandemic.
AARP is an excellent resource to learn about some of the things to look for in a nursing home.
First off, start the process much earlier than you’d expect, perhaps even before your loved one needs more consistent care. There are 15,600 nursing homes across the country, 146 in Arizona alone, and last-minute searches can lead to mistakes and bad decisions.
Where to Start Searching for Nursing Homes
Start your search online. State regulatory sites have great basic info on every facility’s permit and safety checks, the best known being Medicare’s Nursing Home Compare, which uses a straightforward rating system and has recent inspection notes.
The next piece is proximity. Choosing a facility that’s either close to you or close to main family members eases the travel burden and will make the transition process easier for everyone. Note their visitor policy both during the pandemic and perhaps ask what they’re considering once health & safety guidelines ease. A detailed policy could show that the center takes health and hygiene seriously.
Families should also spend some time in the nursing facility simply observing. Considering things like noise, foot traffic, room quality, and other resident happiness are critical to informing the overall decision.
Before making a final decision, make a second, unannounced visit. Ideally, this gives you the opportunity to view how the facility operates in normal conditions and a more precise idea if it’s the right home for your loved one.
What To Avoid in a Nursing Home
There are several factors, but don’t be immediately swayed by price or nicer finishings. Cosmetic touches are sometimes merely that and don’t reflect the actual quality of care. If you notice residents not being tended to in a timely or compassionate fashion, that’s also a red flag.
Additionally, what’s the temperature like in the facility? Is it too cold or too hot? We all know Arizona has a unique climate, and the care center should be highly mindful that older citizens are much more sensitive to very hot or cold temperatures.
The last thing you want with your nursing home choice is to encounter a situation of potential neglect or mismanagement, but if that’s the case, know that there are options available to you. Call the qualified and compassionate nursing home neglect law team at Rabb & Rabb, PLLC today at (520) 888-6740 to schedule a free consultation to discuss your specific situation.
