Advice from Nursing Home Lawyers: Choosing a Nursing Home (Part 2)

As elder law attorneys know, choosing a nursing home is a highly stressful task.  In “Choosing a Nursing Home (Part 1), we provided important questions you may want to ask when evaluating a nursing home:  certification, contracts, privacy, patient rooms, and security.  Part 2 provides suggested questions regarding food, common rooms, health care, personal care, activities, and visitors.  If you have further questions, consult with a qualified elder law attorney.

Food

What is the quality and quantity of the food?  Are there food choices and snacks available 24/7?  Will your loved one eat in her room or a common dining area?  Is the kitchen clean and well equipped?

Common areas

Are there common areas for gatherings and activities?  Can a common room be reserved for a private gathering?  What activities and entertainment are provided?  Are there bathrooms readily available?

Health care

Is there a medical team, specifically a doctor, on call 24/7?  If your loved one has specific medical conditions, can the medical team adequately treat such conditions?  If the condition gets worse, can your loved one remain at the facility?  Who is part of the medical team?  Are there in house physical and occupational therapy, dentists, and massage therapists?

Personal care

Is hair care and nail care available?  How often are personal laundry services provided?  Is a (same gender) trained employee available to help your loved one with getting dressed, bathing, and going to the toilet?  Is a trained employee available for transferring assistance?  Will your loved one be consulted on personal care issues?

Daily routine

How often does the doctor check on your loved one?  Are clergy members available on a regular basis?  Is mail delivered daily?  Can your loved one nap, get up and go to sleep at night as she wishes?

Visitors

What visitor policies are in place?  Are there visiting hours or is there open visitation?  Are there private rooms and snacks available to serve to visitors?

If you have further questions or concerns about choosing a nursing home, consult with a qualified elder law attorney.