Finding the right nursing home for someone you love can be challenging. Whether they are elderly, disabled, or terminally ill, finding the right facility can be difficult. In this article, we will highlight six steps to help you in your decision to find the most appropriate nursing home for your loved one.
Step 1: Research and Compare Nursing Homes
The first step towards finding a nursing home is researching and comparing the different options available in your area. There are many things to consider when selecting a nursing home. Consider factors such as staff qualifications, location, safety record, activities offered, and what type of care suits your loved one’s needs best.
There are many useful resources to help you with the process. Here are just a couple we recommend: Overall Star Rating for Nursing Homes and Pikes Peak Agency on Aging
Step 2: Set Up A Visit
Once you have narrowed down your selection of potential nursing homes, it’s time to schedule a visit. This will allow you to make sure that the nursing home meets all of your requirements and has the appropriate facilities for your loved one—including medical care if needed. It would also be beneficial to speak with existing residents or their families while on site; this can give you insight into how the residents are being cared for.
Step 3: Gather Necessary Documents
Before getting started with the admission process itself, make sure that all necessary documents are gathered in one place. This includes official identifications (such as driver’s license or passport), copies of medical records or legal documents if applicable, and any admissions forms that may be required by the facility. Additionally, most facilities will require a financial assessment prior to admittance. Be sure to check with the facility to see what documents are required.
Step 4: Discuss The Costs With The Nursing Home
Although there may be other forms of assistance available, it is important to discuss costs upfront with the facility itself prior to making any commitments or signing any paperwork. Doing so will help prevent any surprises in terms of out-of-pocket expenses later once admittance has been approved.
Step 5: Submit The Application For Admission
The fifth step is submitting an application for admission itself; typically done in person at the facility (though some places may allow an online submission). Applications usually contain questions related to health history as well as preferences regarding meals and the type of room desired etc., so make sure all relevant information is included accurately and in full detail prior to submission.
Step 6: Wait For Approval
Finally, once everything has been submitted, you must wait for approval. This can take anywhere from a few days until two weeks depending on both availability and response time from personnel involved. Ultimately, when admission approval is completed, you should receive confirmation detailing specifics such as the move-in date, etc.
Following these six steps provides an easy roadmap to help you with getting your loved one admitted into a nursing home swiftly but also safely — ensuring both comfortability and quality medical care.
If you have additional questions regarding nursing home admission, please contact your provider at AgeWell or schedule an appointment to discuss.