Choosing a nursing home or care facility for a loved one can feel like navigating a complex maze - but with the right guidance, you can find the perfect fit. The Lawrence Journal-World recently published a helpful overview of the key factors to consider, and what this really means is that families have more power than they might think when it comes to ensuring their loved one's safety and comfort.
Start with Government Ratings, But Don't Stop There
The first step, according to experts, is to check the government's nursing home ratings through the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services. These ratings can provide valuable clues, with one- and two-star facilities generally being ones to avoid. But the bigger picture here is that these ratings only tell part of the story - they rely on self-reported data that can be unreliable. That's why it's crucial to dig deeper by reviewing inspection reports and online reviews as well.
Look Past the Polished Facade
When touring potential facilities, it's easy to get dazzled by the lobby's elegant furnishings or carefully manicured grounds. But as Mark Sanchez, CEO of United Hebrew nursing home, advises, "When I tour a building, I listen first. Is it loud? Are call bells ringing nonstop?" In other words, look past the surface-level aesthetics and pay attention to the day-to-day operations and staff-resident interactions.
Nonprofit vs. For-Profit: What's the Difference?
Experts also recommend considering a facility's ownership structure. Sam Brooks of the National Consumer Voice for Quality Long-Term Care notes that nonprofit nursing homes tend to have better staffing levels than their for-profit counterparts. The takeaway? Nonprofit facilities may be worth a closer look when compiling your list of options.
Choosing the right nursing home or care facility is a high-stakes decision, but with the right research and an eagle eye for details, families can find a place that truly meets their loved one's needs. It's a challenging process, but the peace of mind it provides is invaluable.