Many individuals may hesitate to place older loved ones in nursing homes due to concerns they will be unsafe and uncomfortable; however, skilled nursing facilities offer several advantages that help ensure both safety and comfort for residents.
Boredom and isolation are common challenges among seniors living alone; nursing homes offer plenty of activities designed to engage the mind, body, and spirit.
Peace of Mind
Nursing homes provide families with peace of mind knowing that their loved ones are receiving excellent care. Staff have 24-hour access to health professionals should any issues arise, while many facilities also provide physical, occupational, and speech therapy to promote healthier living for residents.
Nursing homes also take on the responsibility of housekeeping and meal services for residents, giving them more time for social activities or simply relaxing comfortably in a relaxing environment. Furthermore, most nursing homes are accredited, which shows they meet quality standards established by independent organizations.
Relocating a loved one can be difficult, but that doesn’t mean they won’t receive care from you. The most important thing you can do for them is ensure they receive medical and custodial attention in order to maintain an acceptable quality of life.
Before selecting a nursing home, be sure to visit several and ask questions about its care programs, amenities, and costs. It is also a good idea to observe how clean and well-maintained their facility is as well as the activities they offer and whether meals can cater to dietary restrictions. Finally, investigate their accreditation status as well as their nurse-to-patient ratio.
Physical Care
Nursing homes provide 24-hour specialized medical care and superior personal assistance compared to assisted living or board and care homes, and may also offer rehabilitation services like physical, occupational, and speech therapy.
Provide assistance with daily tasks like bathing, dressing, and eating. Most services typically provide three meals daily that can be tailored specifically to medical needs. In addition, social engagement through community meals, events, and group outings provides valuable opportunities to seniors that enhance mental health and happiness.
When visiting a nursing facility, be sure to regularly check in on your loved one and inquire as to their wellbeing. If they appear isolated, encourage participation in group activities and social interactions among residents – it can be challenging for seniors to adjust to new environments, so supporting their transition is paramount.
When visiting, be mindful of the cleanliness of common areas and any odors present. Also, be sure to verify whether they offer 24-hour emergency medical care in case your family member suffers an acute injury or illness that requires immediate medical care.
Mental Health
Nursing homes provide care to individuals with long-term disabilities or illnesses who need 24-hour supervision, such as those recovering from stroke or serious injury; those suffering from Alzheimer’s which causes memory loss; those suffering severe depression that renders it impossible for them to care for themselves on their own; such adults often qualify for Medicare and Medicaid services.
Nursing homes can often make it difficult for those living with mental health conditions to receive adequate care, often due to limited services in their area, provider norms, or financial concerns. Psychosocial nurses and therapists may visit residents through behavioral telehealth services such as Zoom which allow virtual sessions.
Social workers can assist nursing home residents by connecting them with additional mental health resources available within their community, such as psychiatrists who may prescribe medication that can alleviate symptoms associated with various mental conditions.
While accepting that your loved one must move into a nursing home can be hard, remember its many benefits for your loved one, and don’t hesitate to reach out if you feel care is not being provided properly – either to an Ombudsman for Nursing Homes or your local mental health agency for assistance.
Socialization
No matter if your elderly loved one needs home health care or nursing home care, it’s essential that you understand all of their options and select one that ensures their highest possible quality of life.
Nursing homes (sometimes referred to as skilled nursing facilities or SNF) offer around-the-clock medical care in a comfortable and safe environment, including access to physical therapy if necessary and treatments such as wound care management and IV medications. Nursing homes also provide opportunities for socialization through group outings, recreational activities, and communal dining experiences.
Though many older adults may be uncomfortable with the prospect of moving into a nursing home, such housing can actually improve their overall quality of life. By relieving family caregivers of 24-hour caregiving duties and offering them a supportive community environment to call their own, nursing homes provide invaluable relief that allows elderly residents to live more fulfilling lives.
Nursing homes and assisted living facilities differ in terms of services they provide, yet both offer similar benefits such as 24-hour supervision, assistance with daily tasks, and ready meals. Many certified Medicare skilled nursing facilities (SNF) accept long-term care insurance payments; although Medicare doesn’t cover home health care it can cover limited days at an SNF following hospitalization if necessary.
