Apr
21
Know the signs to watch for and the questions to ask
Placing a loved one in a long-term care facility is one of the most difficult decisions a family can make. Along with the often overwhelming sense of guilt, there are often an overwhelming number of choices. So, how do you find the best facility for your loved one?
It’s important to have a list of questions before you visit care facilities. But the best information you can gather is usually what you observe while you are being taken on a tour and/or making an unannounced visit.
Privacy: Federal mandates give every resident the right to privacy in a care facility. Yet, very few facilities actually enforce this policy. All staff should knock on a resident’s door before entering a room, then wait to be invited inside. Staff should never discuss resident’s personal health information in the hallways or where others can overhear.
Security: You will want to ask how the facility protects its residents. You will also want to note how easy it is for you to wander into the facility or residents to wander out. Are you asked to sign in and out or asked for identification?
Staffing: Ask the ratio of nurses and certified nursing assistants per resident. The facility should be able to tell you the average amount of time each resident is given direct care by a CNA and nurse. As you narrow down your choices, go back for a second visit — at a different time and on a different day of the week. The staff changes with each shift and it’s possible that the level of care changes too. For example, try to gauge the amount of time it takes for a resident to get assistance from a staff member. Most importantly, do the residents seem happy and talk freely with the staff?
Mealtimes: This is often the most chaotic time for facilities and the best time to determine how the staff and residents interact. Notice if the staff remains friendly and happy. Do they assist residents with opening containers, using silverware, and eating? Is the food appetizing and served at the correct temperature? Do residents sit for long periods of time after they are done eating, waiting for staff to take them back to their room or afternoon activities?
State Inspections: The state is required to inspect each care facility to make sure they meet health and safety standards. Those reports can be viewed online at www.medicare.gov. It is important to research any facility you plan to visit. If you have questions or concerns regarding the inspections, address them with the facility’s Administrator.
If you need assistance in finding the best care for your loved one, there are local companies and geriatric care managers available to assist you.
For a complete list of all of the care facilities in the Kansas City metropolitan area, visit our web site for instant FREE access to the Kansas and Missouri Nursing Home and Assisted Living Guide. It provides additional information about getting good care and discusses ways to pay for the cost of care.
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