Page 1 Page 2 Page 3 Page 4 Page 5 Page 6 Page 7 Page 8 Page 9 Page 10 Page 11 Page 12 Page 13 Page 14 Page 15 Page 16 Page 17 Page 18 Page 19 Page 20 Page 21 Page 22 Page 23 Page 24 Page 25 Page 26 Page 27 Page 28 Page 29 Page 30 Page 31 Page 32 Page 33 Page 34 Page 35 Page 36 Page 37 Page 38 Page 39 Page 40 Page 41 Page 42 Page 43 Page 44 Page 45 Page 46 Page 47 Page 48 Page 49 Page 50 Page 51 Page 52 Page 53 Page 54 Page 55 Page 56Sometimes, whether because of old age or a dis- abling injury, we have to consider the option of finding a nursing home for a loved one. This can be a very time consuming and emotional process for every family member involved. A nursing home is a residence for a person who can’t be cared for at home, but doesn’t need hospital care. A com- mon misconception, nursing homes are not only for the elderly, but also for anyone needing 24-hour assistance and care. If you need to find a nursing facility, here are a few tips to help guide you through the selection process. Ask Questions While you’re compiling your research, ask plenty of ques- tions. Talk with your relatives and friends who may have gone through the nursing home selection process, and speak with doctors, social workers or religious groups about their recommendations. If you plan on using Medi- care or other insurance options, it’d be smart to check with your agent about the facilities they feel provide qual- ity care. Get on the Phone Once the research phase is over and you’ve selected your top contenders, it’s time to give each nursing home a call. Talk to them about your current situation, ask questions about the number of residents, costs and if there’s a wait- ing list. If you like what you hear, schedule a time to visit. Get a Lay of the Land Scheduling a visit to local homes is a must. You wouldn’t buy a car without test-driving it, right? By walking through your top choices, you’ll get a feel for the environ- ment of the home, a look into the quality of life of current residents, and you’ll meet with the staff who will care for your loved one. Make the Choice The decision to leave your loved one in the care of some- one outside your family can be an emotional roller coast- er. It’s important to know you’re choosing this option with the best intentions. Once you’ve chosen the right home and received contracts from the facility, be sure to care- fully read the document and ask even more questions if there are areas you’re unsure of. Watch for Signs of Abuse and Neglect A nursing home has a legal and moral obligation to pro- vide a safe and comfortable environment to its residents, and if it fails to meet that obligation, it should be held accountable. Bedsores, open wounds, bruising, broken bones and infections that never seem to go away are signs of abuse or neglect. Less obvious warning signs are in- adequate or inconsistent medication distribution and un- responsive managers who fail to address issues such as constant falls and dirty or unsanitary living conditions. Nursing homes don’t always have the staff, equipment or resources required to meet every resident’s needs – but that’s never an excuse for negligence or abuse. Making the right choice for your parents in their golden years 27