4 Must-Ask Questions When Choosing Your Loved One’s Nursing Home
Posted on May 23, 2022 by shieldsandboris
Let’s face it, people are busy. Long commutes to visit loved ones add barriers to the relationship. Sometimes there is a difficult decision of choosing between a distant top-ranked facility or a more accessible facility where loved ones can visit regularly and monitor the elder’s care. You must analyze both and decide which one will ultimately be best long-term.
1. What services are offered?
If your loved one is recovering from a hip fracture, you’ll need to select a facility that has an appropriate rehabilitation program. Finding a facility with a memory care program can be especially beneficial for those suffering from dementia.
2. How do you keep residents engaged?
Ask to see the facility’s monthly activity calendars. Make sure the 3 B’s aren’t on repeat (bingo, Bible study, and birthday parties) as those get old and won’t keep the senior engaged. Offerings should be varied and appealing. Availability of transportation to take seniors to their favorite hair or nail salon is also a good way to keep them active and in good spirits.
3. What kind of food do you serve?
Nursing home residents rely entirely on the facility to provide their nutritional needs. Healthy, well-balanced, and appetizing food improves the senior’s quality of life. Additionally, if your loved one has any cultural food preferences, traditions, or dietary needs, ask how those will be accommodated.
4. What if we run out of money?
Nursing homes are expensive. The average nursing home cost is $8,121 per month, or $97,452 per year for a private room. Ask about what would happen if your loved one ran out of resources and was placed on Medicaid. Is the facility certified to accept Medicaid, or are they going to evict the senior?
Seeing your loved enter into a nursing home can be stressful. That is why we work closely with you and your family to review all of the health care, financial, and asset protection planning options so you can make the best decision. If you have questions or want to discuss planning, contact us to discuss how we can help your loved one preserve their legacy.
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