A Comprehensive Guide on Selecting the Ideal Nursing Home
Your loved one has reached a point where they can no longer care for themselves. In-home care is no longer sufficient, and their safety is at risk. It is time to consider a skilled nursing facility or nursing home. While there are many options available, it is essential to choose the right one that meets your loved one’s needs and ensures their well-being. Additionally, figuring out how to pay for nursing home care can be overwhelming. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the factors to consider when selecting a nursing home and various payment options available.
Regulations Regarding Nursing Homes
All nursing homes that receive Medicare or Medicaid funding must adhere to federal and state regulations. These regulations include having a visiting doctor assigned to the facility, skilled nurses, and adequate staff. Furthermore, nursing homes must develop a comprehensive wellness plan for each resident, which involves conducting a thorough assessment of their functional capacity. It is crucial for the family to be part of this assessment and plan. The goal is to ensure the residents’ quality of life by meeting their basic needs, including nutrition.
Factors That Distinguish a Good Nursing Home From a Bad One
When visiting potential nursing homes, pay attention to the ambiance and cleanliness. A good nursing home should have a clean scent, indicating proper hygiene practices. Soiled rugs and furniture that haven’t been adequately cleaned could be a red flag. Additionally, observe the cleanliness of the bathrooms and floors, as dirt may indicate potential health risks for residents.
Staffing is another critical aspect to consider. Inquire about the staff-to-resident ratio, as this can greatly impact the quality of care provided. While each state has different requirements, the ideal ratio in the United States is one staff member for every six to eight residents. Unfortunately, the reality often falls short of this standard, with ratios as high as 1:40 for RN/LPN and 1:20 for CNAs.
Mealtime is an essential part of a resident’s day, so experiencing a meal at the prospective nursing home is crucial. Assess the taste and balance of the food and observe whether residents who require assistance are being properly cared for during meals. Additionally, inquire about the activities and engagement opportunities available for residents. A good nursing home should strive to keep its residents active and engaged, rather than seeing them slumped over in chairs.
What’s the Incidence of Infectious Diseases?
Infectious diseases are a significant concern in nursing homes, with approximately two million infections occurring in the 16,000 nursing homes across the United States each year. Considering that over 1.5 million seniors reside in nursing homes, this is an alarming number. Infections can lead to rehospitalization or even death. When touring a facility, inquire about how they handle sickness and ask about any recent outbreaks or the frequency of outbreaks within the facility.
Paying for Skilled Nursing Home Care
The cost of nursing home care can be financially overwhelming for many families. Here are four ways you can potentially cover the expenses:
1. Private Pay: Those who can afford it may choose to pay for nursing home care out-of-pocket. However, this can be a hardship for many, particularly if the prospective patient is married. Some may explore options such as reverse mortgages or selling their largest asset if they are single.
2. Long-Term Care Insurance: Long-term care insurance covers various types of care, including in-home care, facility care, and community organizational care. Premiums for long-term care insurance vary based on gender and age, with women typically paying more due to their longer life expectancy. Purchasing a couples policy can provide a 15 percent savings.
3. Medicaid: Medicare only covers the first 100 days in a nursing home. If your loved one requires long-term care beyond this period and cannot afford the costs, Medicaid can be an option. However, qualifying for Medicaid requires meeting specific financial criteria, as the individual must essentially be impoverished. Transferring assets within five years of applying for Medicaid is not permitted, except for a spouse’s residence.
4. Plan Ahead: It is essential to plan ahead to avoid rushing to find a nursing home at the last minute. Research and visit potential facilities well in advance to ensure you find one that meets your loved one’s needs and provides a safe environment. Purchasing a long-term insurance policy can be a proactive way to prepare for potential nursing care needs.
Conclusion
Selecting the ideal nursing home for your loved one is a crucial decision that requires careful consideration. By understanding the regulations, assessing the cleanliness and staffing of the facility, and evaluating the available activities and engagement opportunities, you can make an informed choice. Additionally, exploring various payment options, such as private pay, long-term care insurance, or Medicaid, can help alleviate the financial burden of nursing home care. Remember to plan ahead to ensure you have ample time to research and choose the best nursing home that meets your loved one’s requirements and ensures their well-being.
