There may come a point when an elderly friend or family member begins needing more care and support than you can provide. The United States has over 15,000 certified nursing homes with more than one million residents – but knowing when to it is time to consider a move and which place is best for your loved one is a difficult, and sometimes scary, decision to face.

The National Institute on Aging (NIA), which is part of the National Institutes of Health, or NIH, is tasked with the mission of improving the health and well-being of older Americans. The organization has a useful guide for those who are trying to navigate which nursing home or assisted living facility may be best for their loved one. As you embark on some big decisions, here are a few important topics to consider: 

• First, you must consider the individual’s needs and wants. It is important to assess what services the person needs right now, and which services they may need in the future. Services that older adults sometimes need include assistance with everyday activities (such as eating, getting dressed, taking medication, etc.), physical therapy, hospice care, nursing care, and/or a special unit for people with dementia and memory problems. Speak to the person about what services or features are important to them, like social and recreational activities, dietary options and mealtimes, being close to family and friends, and/or a religious connection. Once you discuss the individual’s preferences and determine what services they need and will need, you have a great starting point.
• Talk to friends, family, and others in your area. Ask other people in your community what their experiences are with certain nursing and long-term care facilities — were they happy with the care they received? You can also reach out to social workers, health care providers, religious groups and support groups in your area who can assist by recommending quality options. 
• Call and visit different facilities. Once you have identified a few options that could work, it is time to make some calls to the places on your list. Ask basic questions, like how many residents live at the facility and what it costs. You should be sure to mention any special needs and preferences; also, remember to ask if the facility has immediate availability or if there is a waiting list. Before you make a concrete decision, visit the facilities in person! Don’t forget to bring along a copy of the Medicare Nursing Home Checklist, which you can find at: https://www.medicare.gov/publications/12130nursing-home-checklist508.pdf.
• You should make plans to speak with the director, nursing director, and any other key staff members. As you walk around the facility, look for things like the Medicare and Medicaid certifications, state licensing, accessibility for people with disabilities, residents who look appropriately dressed, clean, and well cared for, warm and respectful interactions between residents and staff members, and a clean, fresh-smelling, comfortable, and well-maintained facility. If you like the facility, go ahead and visit a second time without making an appointment or calling ahead. Try a different day of the week or time so you see different staff members. Consider stopping by at mealtime to see if the food likes appetizing or if you can sample it.
• When you visit a facility, ask questions. Do not be afraid to ask questions! Ask about anything that is confusing or concerning. Here are a few ideas of questions that you can ask the staff: How many providers are there per resident? What kind of training do staff members have? How many staff members are trained to provide medical care if needed? What kind of activities are planned for the residents during the week and weekend? How long have the director and heads of nursing, food, and social services departments worked at the facility? How often do key staff members turnover? How do residents get to their medical appointments? Is there information on state regulations for how care is provided? For example, what happens when there is an infectious disease outbreak requiring quarantine? 
• Find out about costs and contracts. Every facility is different, so make sure to get detailed information about costs – and which services are included. Find out if Medicaid, Medicare, or long-term insurance will pay for any costs. The facility may have a financial office that can help you determine what assistance is available. Once you select a facility, read the contract carefully. Make sure all agreements are clear and ask questions about any part that you don’t understand. Read the contact over again before you sign it. 

Nursing Home Safety and Speaking with an Attorney

Although nursing homes and long-term assisted living facilities provide an array of critical services to vulnerable and indigent individuals, they are not always without problems. When there are issues, they often include things like inadequate staffing, poor living conditions, abuse and/or neglect, social isolation, medication errors, and financial strain.

If you suspect that a loved one is a victim of nursing home negligence, report your concerns to the nursing home administrator and head nurse. If at any time you believe a resident is in immediate danger, call 9-1-1. After submitting a report, you should contact an experienced nursing home negligence lawyer to discuss your next steps. To speak with someone at our firm who can help, please contact a representative online now.

Medical Malpractice at Galfand Berger, LLP, Representing Injured Victims Since 1947

Contact the Philadelphia medical malpractice attorneys at Galfand Berger LLP today. Call us at 800-222-USWA (8792) or fill out our online form for a free consultation. Located in Philadelphia, Bethlehem, Lancaster, and Reading, we serve clients throughout New Jersey and Pennsylvania, including Allentown and Harrisburg.