Selecting a nursing home for a loved one can be a very difficult decision to come to. If it necessary for your loved one to be placed in a nursing home they usually require around the clock care. Unfortunately, nursing home abuse is quite common. Once you settle your loved one into a care facility it is very difficult to monitor what goes on behind closed doors. However, selecting the proper facility can eliminate the possibility of nursing home abuse taking place. When selecting the proper nursing home there are four things you should consider:
1. State of current patients
A great way to measure the quality of a nursing home is to study current patients. The physical, emotional, and mental state of current patients is and indication of the care offered at that particular home. If patients seem underweight or depressed this may be a direct cause of abuse. Nursing homes are required to offer a range of activities and provide the necessary services to patients. Physical activities (water aerobics, dancing, etc) as well as religious services and social activities should be provided.
2. Location
Proximity of the nursing home to family and friends is another factor that should be carefully considered. Although most patients make friends while in a care facility relationships with family and friends outside can not be replaced. If the nursing home is isolated and difficult to access in relation to your current home, this may pose a problem. Distance determines the frequency of visits. One of the worst things you can do is place your loved one in a care facility and not visit.
3. Staffing
Another factor that should be considered before selecting a home are the staff and employees. Quality of the staff is a determinant in quality of care. Selection process for employees is extremely important. Background checks should be completed. Additionally, employees should receive proper training in all areas. Another thing to consider is ratio of staff to patients. If there are not enough staff to take care of patients you can guarantee that negligence unintentional or intentional will occur. Some patients require intensive care, if staff is not available to attend to their needs this creates a problem.
4. Reputation
A very important thing to consider is the reputation of the home. Horror stories and negative reviews should not be taken lightly. It is true that some people will slander a care facility because of an individual or isolated incidents. Sometimes these incidents are not a clear indication of quality of care. However, if multiple people can offer up a negative experience about the same facility this is something to carefully consider.
If suspect that your loved one has been abused in a nursing home, contact us at Colley and Colley.
15511 W Highway 71
Suite 110-142
Austin, TX 78738
(512) 477-2001
512-477-3335
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