Researching Care Facilities

It is vital for your family member that you spend a considerable amount of time researching nursing homes and assisted living facilities before you make your choice. Look past the marketing efforts to see what type of care your family member will receive at a nursing home. Trust your instincts. If there appears to be inadequate care given when you visit, it is unlikely that it will improve.

FINDING CARE FACILITES IN YOUR AREA

After making a short list based upon converations with family and friends, browse through these web sites listed on the left under "helpful links" to learn more about assisted living facilties and to perhaps establish a longer list.

RESEARCHING CARE FACILITIES

After making your list, visit each facility and keep a written and photographic account of each visit. It is a good idea to visit it twice – once when you meet the management, and if it is at all possible, a second time without prior notice.

When visiting, look for the following in nursing homes (thanks to the American Association of Homes and Sevices for the Aging):

Legal and Medical Documentation

A current operating license from the state.

An administrator who has an up-to-date state license.

Certification for Medicare and Medicaid if these programs are important to you now or in the future.

An active resident council or some type of resident participation program that enables residents to recommend changes within the home.

A residents' bill of rights or a stated policy that identifies and respects residents' individual rights.

Structural Considerations

A location that suits the resident and makes regular visits by family and friends possible.

Handrails in hallways, grab bars in bathrooms and other features aimed at accident prevention.

Clearly marked exits and unobstructed paths to these exits. All nursing homes must comply with state and/or federal fire safety codes.

Bedrooms that open onto a corridor and have windows, as required by law.

An activity room or designated space for residents who are able to be involved in reading, crafts and social activities.

Hallways wide enough to permit two wheelchairs to pass with ease and wheelchair ramps for easy access into and out of the home.

Kitchens that separate food preparation, garbage, and dishwashing areas and keep perishable foods refrigerated.

Toilet facilities designed to accommodate wheelchair residents.

An attractive resident dining room with tables convenient for wheelchairs and food that looks appetizing. Notice, too, whether residents who need help are receiving it.


Quality of Life

Residents who look clean and are dressed appropriately for a full day of activity and social interaction.

Commitment to a philosophy of care in which physical and chemical restraints are used minimally or not at all.

A policy that encourages residents to go outside. Even city homes should have a lawn or garden area for residents to get fresh air.

No heavy odors, whether pleasant or offensive. A good home will not use highly scented sprays to mask odors.


Quality of Staff

A physician who is available for emergencies.

A friendly and available staff who are pleasant, caring and accommodating to residents and visitors.

A volunteer program.

The attorneys at the Williamson & Lavecchia are experienced at representing victims of abuse at nursing homes and assisted living facilities. Please contact us at (804) 288-1661 to see how we can assist you.