Nursing Home Questions

There are many nursing home questions that are important to ask before putting a loved one into senior care. Depending on what you are seeking, there are some specific questions that can help everyone make an informed decision.

Levels of Care

These days there are a couple of different levels of care in nursing homes and retirement living facilities. While some people entering nursing homes need a considerable amount of help, others may remain fairly independent and active. Younger and healthier seniors will likely want to ask more questions regarding social activities and active lifestyles in senior housing, while family members of seniors requiring higher levels of care will want to know more about what is offered to residents who are bedridden or dealing with medical issues.

Good Nursing Home Questions

Depending on what you are looking for, here are some good general questions to ask during an intake interview or a visit to the nursing home:

• Are tours of the facility available?
• What type of security is in place?
• Does the facility meet federal and state requirements?
• What is the cost and how does the payment plan work?
• What are some of the most common complaints of residents?
• What is the ratio of staff to residents?
• What is the background training of the staff?
• How many residents live at the facility?
• What is the average age of residents?
• How is the noise level?
• How do the residents rate the food? Is it gourmet or more standard? Does a nutritionist design or approve the menu?
• How often do nurses make the rounds? Are nurses on site 24 hours per day?
• How clean is the facility and how is this done?

Questions for Younger and Independent Seniors

• What is the age requirement for joining the community?
• What types of amenities are available (i.e., golf course, pool, etc.)
• What other services are provided (i.e., laundry, lawn care, etc.)
• Is there a store on site to buy things?
• Are all meals provided and at what times?
• What kinds of social activities are offered?
• Are there group exercise sessions or other fun group activities?
• Are there regular field trips away from the facility?
• What types of rooms or living spaces are available?
• Are there any religious or church services?
• Can the senior continue to have a car?
• Are there any particular visitors’ hours?

Questions for Older and Lower Functioning Seniors

• What type of medical assistance is available?
• Are there medical doctors on staff?
• Is there any staff training for preventing abuse in elderly care homes?
• What is the noise level in the rooms?
• How many residents live in each room?
• What types of home comforts are provided?
• Are there regular group activities for residents?
• How often will the senior be checked on?
• Are there any simple exercises offered for arthritis?
• Is there anything in place for preventing bedsores?
• What is the age of the oldest resident?

Getting Answers

Asking nursing home questions is important for choosing the right facility. Whether it’s for long-term or short-term care, make sure the location is comfortable and suitable for the senior. Make sure all of your questions are answered and that the answers are acceptable. This will give you both peace of mind and the assurance that the care and medical response of the staff are first-rate. Knowing the facility is taking good care of its residents is the best way to ensure peace of mind for the new resident, as well as all family members and close friends.

Initial Author: Lindsay Woolman

Tags: 55+

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