Helpful Tips in Finding a Good Nursing Home

Finding a good nursing home is not easy, and often people are under a lot of pressure to react quickly due to a recent relatives hospitalisation or deterioration in a loved ones condition. The more information you can get, the greater chance you will have in finding a suitable nursing home.

Here are some useful tips to help you find a suitable nursing home:

Consider the medical needs you require

Different nursing homes may have more expertise in different areas. Are they experienced in dealing with the areas of care required, such as for Alzheimer's or a stroke? Or short term rehabilitation? for example. Factor in distance. In general, the more closer the home, the easier it is for family and friends to visit. Once you have narrowed down a list of nursing homes you think maybe suitable, it's now time to make a visit. With all nursing homes it is the people that make a good environment, you will have to consider both the staff and current residents. You will also have to make sure that the kind of care you require is being given on a regular basis and appropriately.

Take a look at the staff!

Look at the staff roster. What is the staffing level at different times of the day?
Does the staffing level change on weekdays, weekends or evening?
Do the staff have time to speak to you or the patients or do they feel rushed?
Do you see them interacting warmly with current residents?
Do they show a compassionate nature with current residents?

Residents and their families

Do the residents appear to be happy?
Do they appear to be well dressed?
Do they look well groomed and clean?
Do they smell? If you see a family visiting ask them their impressions. Find out how often social gatherings and activities are arranged.

Cleanliness and Hygiene

Does the Home appear clean?
Does it smell?
Does it smell of over powering deoderisers? Check the toilets are clean and have good hygienic standards.

Activities

All good care homes will have an activities programme. Do the activities involve keeping you fit physically? Do the activities involve keeping you fit mentally? Are the activities fun and enjoyable? Check if outside activities can be arranged.

Referrals

Start by asking your family doctor or specialist if they have any recommendations? Find out from friends or family who have first-hand experience and have used different homes in the past? Search for nursing home listings on reputable websites or directories, these often have write-ups and testimonials etc.