Decisions about long-term care are best made based on quality of care, not just bed availability or location, which too often prove to be deciding factors. Nurse researchers point to the following seven signs of high-quality nursing facilities, which include nursing homes, assisted living, and residential care:
* A home-like setting
* Excellent care
* Family involvement
* A pleasant environment
* Good communication
* A committed staff
* A central focus
Options for people needing long-term care today range from skilled rehabilitation, traditional nursing home care, assisted living, and in-home services. People need to keep that in mind when touring a facility: If you walk in and have an immediate negative reaction to the environment (such as odors of urine, feces, or people who smell as if they need bathing), simply turn around and walk out. Go to the next place. You should not be overwhelmed with bad odor, and if you are, that is an indication of major problems with the care.
Families sometimes think they can make the care better by being there more, but the reality is if the care is not good, their loved one will not get the care he or she needs. No one will be happy—not the resident, not the family. The good facilities are available, and people need to be encouraged to keep looking until they find one.
Making decisions about long-term care is stressful for families, but armed with the right information about how to make a good choice, it can be made much easier. Ask yourself if the facility is a place where you or your family member would feel comfortable living. Be good observers, note reactions to what you see, hear, smell, and feel, and trust your judgment.
We would like your feedback on this Personal Finance Frequently Asked Question.
