Many older adults require nursing home care at some point in their lives. Whether searching for yourself or a loved one, it is important to know what to look for when seeking assistance.
When performing due diligence, you must ask a prospective nursing home the right questions to determine whether it meets your needs. WebMD explains a few of the most important questions to ask nursing home staff.
Is the licensing up-to-date?
Nursing homes must operate according to strict rules. This includes holding certain licenses, which shows that the facility is operating according to the current standards. A lack of license is illegal and indicates the administrators are neglectful in their duties.
Do residents get care plans?
Care plans list the type of services individual residents need when saying in nursing homes. They ensure the entire staff provides the right level of care based on the person’s unique needs. The staff develops plans according to the results of the intake assessment, which requires a thorough process. A lack of a plan could lead to inaccurate or insufficient care.
What type of staff are available?
Nursing home staff should include many types of professions. Healthcare staff can include doctors and nurses, as well as mental health providers. Physical and occupational therapists are also important for people with mobility issues. When it comes to Alzheimer’s and dementia, memory care staff play a crucial role.
Is the facility safe and secure?
Because slips and falls are hazardous to seniors, nursing homes must have non-slip flooring throughout. They must also have ample lighting to navigate around easily. Staff should clean and sanitize as needed. Residents must also have access to safe communal areas, where they can spend time with other residents.
Proper vetting ensures you or your loved one will have access to the services they need to thrive. It will also decrease the risk of experiencing nursing home abuse or neglect, which affects a person’s physical and mental health.