Choosing a nursing home for your elderly mom or dad is one of the toughest decisions you will make as a caregiver. Moving into a nursing home or assisted living facility involves major changes in an elderly person's life -- and yours.
To help you find the best one you can, here is a list of basic questions to ask when you are choosing a nursing home for your elderly parents. Print a checklist for each nursing home you visit. Then, compare the lists, to help you select the best possible nursing home for your aging mom or dad.
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To find elder care facilities in your local area, including nursing home, visit the Senior Care Directory on AgingCare.
Questions to Ask
- Is the nursing home Medicare certified?
- Is the nursing home accepting new patients and if so, what is the waiting period for admission?
- How many beds are available?
- Does the nursing home specialize in the disease that your parent suffers from (dementia, stroke, etc.)?
- Is there a special Alzheimer's or dementia unit?
- Is the staff licensed and certified?
- Are background checks conducted on all employees?
- Does the facility have an abuse prevention training program?
- Does the facility have any complains or lawsuits filed against it?
- How does the facility monitor for abuse?
- Can residents make choices about their daily routine (if they are mentally capable)?
- What are the visiting hours?
- Does the nursing home meet your parent's cultural and religious needs?
- Can residents bring personal items and furniture?
- Are the common areas pleasant and comfortable?
- Is there an outdoor area for recreation?
- Is the dining room comfortable and quiet?
- What menu options/special dietary needs are available?
- Does the food and smell good and is it served at proper room temperatures?
- Can residents continue to see their personal doctors?
- Do residents have the same caregiver on a daily basis?
- Is the facility fully staffed at nights and on the weekends?
- Is there regular communication between families and administrators?
- Are there medical professionals (doctors, nurses) on staff and what hours do they work?
- Is there an arrangement with a local hospital for emergencies?
- Are there handrails and grab bars throughout the facility?
- Are exits clearly marked?
- Are spills and accidents cleaned up quickly?
- Are hallways well-lighted and clutter-free?
- Are smoke detectors and sprinklers installed throughout?