SHOPPING FOR A NURSING HOME

The decision to place ones relative in a nursing home is never an easy one, and usually comes about after much agonising and the realization that this is the best or necessary option. Added to this already stressful situation are pressures to select the “right” nursing home that provides suitable medical and personal care in a homely environment at a reasonable cost. This process is time consuming and requires input from several members of a family. The Consumer Affairs Commission with the assistance of the Ministry of Health has provided a list of registered nursing homes which should help to reduce the demand on your time and suggests that the following factors be considered when choosing your relative’s new home.

Safety and good medical care. Ask if the Ministry of Health has approved the home and look for the certificate. You need to know that the facility you choose places a high premium on meeting residents' safety and basic-care needs. Ask about the qualifications of the nurses and if there is a doctor on call. Look for handrails, fire extinguishers and other safety features.

Interactions with staff. Research has shown that relationships with staff are one of the most important aspects of life in a nursing home. Staff interactions should be frequent, pleasant and helpful.

Stimulation. Even severely demented people need stimulation and can express pleasure. A nursing home needs to provide such stimulation and must do more than post a list of activities on the bulletin board. Residents should be encouraged to attend activities and make the most of what the facility offers.

Pleasant and safe environment. The nursing home should be pleasant, bright, clean, and odour-free, a place that you want to visit. See if there is an area designated for visits and remember not to put all the emphasis on the décor, plenty of good care goes on at facilities that do not look like they should be featured in a glossy magazine.

Policy. Ask about the nursing home policy whether its written or generally understood by the staff. If they have taken the time out to establish one it’s a good bet they will direct as much energy to patient care.

In your research make sure to drop by the facility unannounced at several points of the day. This will allow you to see how residents are treated when their relatives and visitors are absent. While there spend sometime speaking to residents and nurses to get more information on treatments and care. Take note of how nurses interact with residents. Visit resident’s rooms and if possible partake in a meal.

Arrange a formal meeting where you will discuss finances. Get an idea about the level of staff satisfaction. Satisfied employees deliver better care. Ask about their staff turn over and the pay levels and observe their attitude and demeanour when they present you with answers. Also ask about extra charges and special services.

Finally make your selection, but remember the only way to ensure that your relatives get the treatment they deserve is by closely supervising their care; so play your part, visit often; familiarize yourself with staff; and keep track of what happens to your relative.