By Hilary Gibson, Staff Writer
Philosophy of Care - does the
facility focus on the needs of the individual
resident? Can flexibility in routines be
accommodated? Are there regular care planning
meetings regarding your loved one? Will these
meetings include you and other family members as
well?
Individualized Care - is
consideration given to individual cultural,
religious or spiritual needs? Are other languages
spoken? Is the facility “home-like”?
Atmosphere - what is the
atmosphere like? Are residents up and about? Are
they socializing with one another? Is the staff
actively engaged with residents? Does staff
treat residents with respect?
Outdoor Areas - is there a nice
spacious outdoor area for residents? Is there
a covered outdoor area in case of rain?
Another great way to obtain information is to
speak directly to the residents. Ask them how they
like living there, and let them know that you are
considering the facility for a family member. Larger
facilities may offer an opportunity for you to speak
with residents in a more private setting, enabling
you to get more candid answers and information. You
may find residents at smaller facilities to be a
little less comfortable speaking about their
experiences, since they have less privacy; if this
is the case, don’t push the issue. After you’ve had
the “official” tour, you may want to walk around the
facility by yourself, unaccompanied. Just remember
not to enter any of the residents’ rooms or areas
without receiving permission first.
When making your final decision, take into
consideration not only the services your loved one
will need right now, but what they may need in the
way of care further down the line. Make sure the
facility you decide upon has services that you may
also need in the future. Before making your
decision, carefully review the entire admissions
packet, especially the section that covers fees and
services with a complete schedule. Will Medicare be
accepted? Will Medicare be willing to cover the
chosen facility? Will Medicaid be accepted if
personal funds run out? Even after doing all your
homework and visiting several facilities, you may
not find exactly what you’re looking for; however,
keep your options open and flexible. You can help
promote quality-of-care for your loved one by
staying actively connected to them as much as
possible, no matter what type of facility is decided
upon.
Printable Version
