Taking the time to research nursing homes that will best fit the needs of your loved one and your family will make the decision much easier. Sadly, most people don't get much time to think about this decision. There are often rapid changes in an individual's mental or physical health that require immediate placement.
Occasionally, the placement begins when a person needs to remain in a senior care facility, such as a nursing home, after undergoing surgery.
What is a Nursing Home?
Often referred to as skilled nursing facilities, nursing homes provide long-term care and housing for seniors.
In most cases, nursing home residents require 24-hour nursing and personal care due to significant physical or mental health issues. Seniors who need medical attention and do not need to be hospitalized are offered the highest level of care at these facilities.
Short-term rehabilitative nursing care is also available in nursing homes after hospitalization. Nursing home rehabilitation programs assist seniors recovering from an illness or accident to regain strength, mobility, and function until they are ready to return to their normal activities.
How to Choose a Nursing Home in Sullivan, IL
It will always be challenging to make the final decision about where to place your loved one in a nursing home. It is an emotionally difficult time, and opinions may differ greatly between your loved one, you, and other family members. Social workers or doctors can be of great help in these situations.
These key points will help you determine the best nursing or care home for you or your loved one:
- Choose the location of the nursing home
Immediately, your care options will be narrowed down. You might consider having the nursing home close to your loved one's current residence, close to you or another caregiver, or in another location altogether. You can access a map or search by area to find nursing homes once you have selected the general location.
- Use comparison websites to evaluate nursing homes
There are many nursing home comparison tools available online. These tools can enable you to compare different nursing homes in the area on one page. It can be an efficient way to compare ratings, distances, and other factors.
- Take a tour
Schedule a tour of the nursing home facility with the administrator. The tour will be completely focused on you and the needs of your loved one. Use the opportunity to interact with residents, observe staff, and group activities.
In-person visits are the only way to gauge the overall ambiance, cleanliness, friendliness of staff and contentment of residents when searching for a nursing home.
Try to see if the staff are polite and respectful, if the food is appealing, if the residents have privacy, and if the nursing home is clean and well-maintained. Make sure you ask all of your pressing questions before you leave.
- Evaluate the nursing staff
Nursing home staff are responsible for ensuring your loved one's safety and well-being, so their attitude, expertise, and professionalism are vital. Before making a decision, you should always ask plenty of questions and spend some time learning about the staff.
Take some time to see if the staff members demonstrate politeness, warmth, and respect between them and the residents. You can do this during your tour or over the phone.
- Read the contract carefully
You should carefully read the contract once you have selected a nursing home. Make sure you understand anything you are unclear about. Before you sign the contract, it’s a good idea to have a friend or family member read it as well.
What to do After Your Loved One is Placed in a Nursing Home
It’s important that you monitor the care closely and remain involved. Many family members think their responsibilities end when a loved one is placed in a long-term care facility. But that isn’t true.
- Visit on different days and at different times
A schedule makes it easy for employees to prepare for you and put on a good show when you arrive regularly. During "off" hours, consider switching your routine up a little bit to ensure that your loved one is receiving the attention and care they deserve.
- Get to know the nursing home employees
Become familiar with their names. This may encourage the staff to provide better care for your loved ones.
If your loved one is ever having a difficult day or you need some information about his or her condition, establishing a rapport with the nurses and staff can come in handy.
- Participate in staff meetings regarding the care plan
The development of a care plan is a crucial step in coordinating and providing care for a senior. Once a senior is placed in long-term care, this is often one of the first things done. Even if they don't provide hands-on care, family caregivers must take part in this process.
Care plans will change as a loved one's condition changes, and staying on top of these changes shows that you are taking an active role in their care.
By being present at monthly care meetings, the nursing home staff will be able to better understand the needs of your loved one and your concerns. In addition, they'll feel more comfortable calling you if they have any questions or updates.
When A Nursing Home Isn’t Right For Your Loved One
If you're looking for a type of care facility that provides the best quality of life for your loved one in a comfortable long-term setting, then a nursing home may not be the best fit. In that case, you may consider the benefits of an assisted living community over a nursing home for the best quality of care.
Choosing Assisted Living Over a Nursing Home in Sullivan, IL
Nursing homes are not always the option that best fits your loved ones’ needs or situation. While these communities provide medical and personal care, it is often done in a clinical setting.
On the other hand, assisted living communities provide a wide range of services and personalized care in a home-like setting. Residents also receive quality amenities and engaging social activities. And, an assisted living community meets residents' needs for all of their activities of daily living.
While some conditions cannot be accommodated by assisted living care, intermittent nursing care is provided for all residents that meet move-in eligibility based on the level of care needed. To put it simply, assisted living may be a better option over a nursing home in Sullivan, IL.
Contact us today at Aspen Creek in Sullivan, IL to learn how our top-tier assisted living and memory care community can provide the best quality living for your loved one.