Choosing a nursing home is a significant decision, one that directly impacts the quality of care for you or your loved ones. It’s a process that involves careful consideration and a focus on key aspects to ensure a safe and supportive living environment.
These factors encompass various aspects, from the quality of medical care to the overall living environment. By understanding these key considerations, you can make a more informed and confident choice for the next chapter in life. Nursing homes are also known by different names such as skilled nursing facilities, long-term care homes, etc.
Before delving into considerations, let’s first look at some recent statistics. Statista indicates that in 2023, about 1.2 million individuals resided in long-term care homes across the United States. This significant number underscores the importance of carefully considering essential components before choosing a nursing home.
In this blog post, we’ll explore five crucial aspects to consider when evaluating skilled nursing facilities.
Quality of Medical Staff
You need assurance that the long-term care home you choose has a skilled medical team. Evaluate the qualifications of staff, including nurses and caregivers. Active engagement by experienced professionals ensures effective care tailored to individual needs.
Look for a facility with certified nursing assistants. Regular training and up-to-date certifications are indicators of a committed medical staff. Prioritize a skilled nursing facility where the medical team actively communicates and collaborates for optimal resident well-being.
This factor becomes increasingly vital in states with a significant concentration of skilled nursing facilities. Consider Illinois, for instance, where there are approximately 1,200 long-term care facilities catering to over 100,000 residents. Alarmingly, the higher number of these establishments may also contribute to a rise in cases of nursing home abuse.
In East Chicago, a recent incident exposed a concerning issue: a 96-year-old dementia patient at a facility experienced a sexual assault. Consequently, her family initiated legal action against a nursing home in northwest Indiana and a male resident. Frequent occurrences of such incidents emphasize the pressing need for immediate legal interventions to address these escalating cases.
In these cases, seeking the assistance of a Chicago nursing home abuse attorney would be your best bet. By doing so, you can enhance the likelihood of a desirable outcome and send a powerful message to the perpetrators.
Moreover, the state is also taking various measures to reduce these incidents. These facilities in Illinois undergo inspections at a frequency of at least once every 15 months. The state’s average inspection rate is once every 12 months.
Safety and Facility Maintenance
Ensure the skilled nursing facility prioritizes safety, scrutinizing cleanliness and security measures. Inspect living spaces for cleanliness and adherence to hygiene standards. Facilities with well-maintained environments are indicative of a commitment to resident safety.
Inquire about emergency protocols and general security to confirm a secure living environment. Regular maintenance checks and swift resolution of issues showcase a dedication to resident well-being. A long-term care home with a proactive approach to safety measures fosters a comfortable and secure living space.
Nursing home staff handle both safety and maintenance aspects. Thus, you should look for a facility with an adequate number of technical and non-technical staff. This is especially important due to the recent shortage of staff in these facilities. A report from The American Health Care Association found that 84% of nursing homes are dealing with a shortage of staff. Over two-thirds of these homes worry about having to shut down because they don’t have enough staff.
Enriching Activities for Residents
Residents’ well-being is enhanced by a diverse range of activities, so prioritize long-term care homes with robust engagement options. Seek facilities offering activities tailored to individual interests and capabilities. A dynamic social calendar fosters community and contributes to a more fulfilling lifestyle.
Evaluate the commitment of the long-term care home to provide activities that go beyond routine, aiming for experiences that truly enrich residents’ lives. Look for opportunities for social interaction to build a sense of connection and belonging among residents.
When exploring long-term care homes, ask about the frequency and diversity of activities, ensuring they match residents’ diverse needs and preferences. Choosing facilities dedicated to enriching activities supports an environment promoting physical, mental, and emotional well-being.
Transparent Communication Channels
Transparent communication is essential. You should inquire about the approach of these facilities to share information about care plans and health updates. Facilities fostering clear communication build trust with residents and their families. An active exchange of information ensures everyone is well-informed.
According to the 2022 National Nursing Home Experience Survey, 87% of family members and friends expressed satisfaction with their overall experience. Choose a facility where communication channels are open and responsive, facilitating an inclusive approach to decision-making.
Opt for a long-term care home that actively involves residents and their families in care discussions and planning. This collaborative communication approach keeps everyone informed while empowering residents and their families to actively participate in decisions that impact their well-being.
Nutritional and Dietary Considerations
Nursing home residents’ health is closely tied to their diet. A recent study highlights concerning trends, revealing persistent malnutrition rates among residents in these facilities. Around half of the residents are affected, emphasizing the need for vigilant attention to dietary considerations.
Published in the National Library of Medicine, the study indicates that lower satisfaction with food service increases the risk of malnutrition twenty-fold. It underscores the crucial role of a well-managed dietary program in ensuring residents receive the necessary nutrition. Prioritize long-term care homes that actively address and mitigate malnutrition risks through tailored dietary plans and resident feedback.
Ensure the nursing home prioritizes individual dietary needs and preferences, offering well-balanced and appealing meals. An emphasis on nutritional excellence not only safeguards residents from malnutrition but also contributes to their overall health and well-being.
In your quest for the right nursing home, remember these five crucial considerations. By making these considerations a priority, you pave the way for a positive and enriching experience in the chosen facility. Your thoughtful choices contribute to the well-being and quality of life for yourself or your loved one for years.
