Many will face the daunting task of choosing a nursing home facility for a family member or for their own care. Waiting until a crisis occurs will increase the level of difficulty in making a decision and may limit your choices, therefore, take the time to visit and inspect facilities as part of a long-range plan.
Types of Care
Nursing home facilities provide different levels of care, depending on their staff, accreditation and size. Custodial care is assistance with non-medical activities such as bathing, dressing or eating. When a patient admitted to a nursing home requires medication, the services of a physical therapist or nurse, to recover from surgery or an injury and is otherwise well, the level of care is intermediate care. Finally, a patient who is not able to care for herself, may be bedridden, or requires the services of a physician will need to find a facility that provides skilled nursing care.
The Facility
Take time to consider practical concerns including atmosphere and surroundings. The CDC estimates the average length of stay in a nursing home to be approximately 835 days. Before placing a family member, stop by the nursing home for a surprise visit. Notice if the facility is clean and if the rooms are pleasant. As you walk through the lounges and the hallways, see if the residents are engaged in activities and if the staff treats the patients with courtesy and respect. Ask for a copy of the activity schedule as well as the current menu.
Services
A stay at a nursing home can be expensive and there are many services not covered by some insurance plans. Check to see what services are available, such as laundry, telephone, physical therapy or social activities. Ask if these services are included or are billed separately. If services such as these bill separately, find out what is covered and what will add to your out-of-pocket expense. Surcharges and special fees can drastically affect your financial plan and the level of care you may be able to afford.
