Cherished family members deserve the best care, especially as they grow older. A quality nursing home facility can help parents, grandparents, siblings or other loved ones live a happy, healthy life. You will have peace of mind knowing that they are receiving kind attention and care. There are several aspects to consider when picking a care center. Making the right choice means your loved ones will enjoy happiness and longevity. It will also mean less stress for family members.

Visit the Facility

Take a tour of the potential facility. You should intuitively feel warmth and safety in this environment. Your visit will also provide clues about the general atmosphere and morale of the residents. There should be lots of natural light, cheerful colors, bright wall art and hints of laughter from the staff and patients.

Focus on the cleanliness, staffing levels and the appearance of other residents. Is the air fresh and free from unpleasant permanent odors such as urine, feces and stale food? Are there enough nurses and attendants on duty? Are residents appropriately dressed? Do they seem clean and freshly bathed?

Bring the prospective resident along for the tour. This facility may become home. Your loved one deserves to have a voice in selecting the facility. Feeling welcomed are cues that this could be a positive living experience.

Socializing is important. Are there opportunities for residents to meet each other? Regular activities such as music and crafts or an outdoor area for enjoying the sunshine will enhance quality of life.

Most nursing home facilities are happy to provide a tour of the building. Once you seen the environment, ask for a consultation with a staff member. This is an opportunity for you to ask questions and address special needs of the prospective patient.

Possible questions might include availability of physical and occupational therapy, accommodation of patients’ doctors’ appointments outside the facility and access to barbers and beauticians for the residents.

Talk with Others

You might have a chance to talk with a relative of a resident who is currently living in the nursing home. Don’t be afraid of asking them for honest opinions about the facility.

Query them about the staff and quality of care received by the residents. Solicit their input on whether you should place your own loved one in this facility.

These relatives are usually eager to share their experiences with you. Hearing their impressions will help ease your own anxieties about this important decision.

Ask the Doctor

If you are still unsure about your decision, or if you have reservations about the facility, discuss the matter with your loved one’s primary care physician.

Deciding to put a family member or loved one in a nursing facility is never easy. Carefully weigh the expectations of your family member with your impressions and the recommendations of others.

Whether it be for weeks, months or even years, this is one of life’s most difficult decisions. Taking the time and doing the research will result in a better quality of life for your loved one and peace of mind for yourself.

SOURCE MTSTANDARD.COM  03/30/2014

View a printer-friendly version of this article.