Is Your Loved One Getting Proper Nursing Home Care?

They may forget what you said, but they will never forget how you made them feel.” — Carl W. Buechner

As our loved ones go into nursing homes or memory care facilities, our greatest concern is that they receive the care and support they need. In fact, ensuring proper care for seniors in nursing homes should be a top priority. The majority of nursing homes take their responsibility very seriously, nevertheless, they are our parents or family members and we will want to always be aware.

Here’s a very complete guide detailing…

How to recognize if seniors are receiving the care they deserve within a nursing home environment:

1. Staff Interaction and Attentiveness: Observe staff behavior…provides significant insights.
   • Staff should be respectful, compassionate, and attentive to residents’ needs. Be aware of how they engage with residents—whether they listen actively, respond promptly to calls, and assist with care tasks in a respectful manner.
2. Cleanliness and Safety Measures: Clean and organized surroundings are indicative of a well-maintained facility.
   • Check for cleanliness in community areas, bedrooms, bathrooms, and dining spaces.
   • Also, assess safety measures such as handrails, well-lit hallways, and emergency response systems.
3. Individualized Care Plans: Each resident should have a personalized care plan that details their specific health needs, dietary requirements, mobility assistance, and medication management. Inquire about the customization of these plans and how regularly they are updated to reflect changing needs.
4. Medical Attention and Monitoring: Regular health assessments, medication management, and prompt attention to health concerns are crucial.
   • Ensure that residents have access to medical care, scheduled check-ups, and that staff are vigilant about monitoring changes in health status.
5. Nutrition and Hydration: Proper nutrition and hydration are extremely important for a senior’s well-being.
   • Assess the quality, variety, and timing of meals provided. Confirm that dietary needs and preferences are accommodated, and drinking water is encouraged throughout the day.
6. Activities and Social Engagement: An active social life enhances mental health.
   • A good nursing home should offer diverse activities and opportunities for residents to engage socially. Check for a range of activities catering to different interests and abilities.
7. Communication with Families: Transparent communication with family members is so important. Regular updates about a resident’s health, any changes in their condition, and involving family in care decisions should be standard practice.
8. Residents’ Physical Appearance and Hygiene: Personal hygiene and grooming say so much about the care provided.
   • Well-groomed residents with clean clothing, appropriate grooming, and maintained personal hygiene indicate proper care.
9. Emotional Well-being and Support: Look for signs of emotional well-being among residents…
   • Are there avenues for them to express themselves or seek support?
   • Staff should provide emotional support and create a nurturing environment.
10. Resident’s Feedback and Satisfaction: Ultimately, the resident’s contentment is crucial.
    • Engage with your loved one to understand their experience…you can learn a lot. Their feedback about their daily life, interactions with staff, and overall satisfaction is invaluable.
11. Regulatory Compliance and Reviews: Check the nursing home’s accreditation, state inspection reports, and any history of violations. Government agencies and online resources often provide ratings and reviews that can offer insights into the facility’s quality of care.

While these indicators offer an overall overview, maintaining regular communication and frequent visits with your loved one is key to ensuring their well-being. Building a relationship with the staff and being an advocate for your loved one’s needs will help maintain a high standard of care within nursing home settings. Be sure your senior is respected, cared for, and lives comfortably in their nursing home environment.

We are Certified Senior Move Managers recognized by our National Association of Senior Move Managers, NASMM! We are committed to serving our seniors with a high standard of ethics, best business practices and continuing education to help make whatever transition they are going through a Smooth Transition.

Contact us to learn how we can help you and/or your family with senior downsizing and moving anywhere in the Phoenix East Valley area, additionally we can assist if you are moving out of state.

We offer a Free consultation.

We would love to serve you. 480-339-0011