People live at nursing homes for different reasons. They may be sick or hurt and require ongoing nursing care. They may have had surgery and need time to recuperate. Or they may have needs or disabilities that make long-term nursing care a necessity.
Many communities have nursing homes. But how do you pick one that’s best for you or your family member?
The first step is to learn about the facilities in your area. There are several ways to achieve this:
- Ask people you trust, like your family, friends or neighbors, if they’ve had personal experience with nursing homes. They may be able to recommend one.
- Ask your doctor if he or she provides care at any local nursing homes. If so, ask your doctor which nursing homes he or she visits so you may continue to see him or her while you’re in the nursing home.
- If you’re in the hospital, ask your social worker about discharge planning as early in your hospital stay as possible. The hospital’s staff should be able to help you find a nursing home that meets your needs and help with your transfer when you’re ready to be discharged.
Medicare provides a handy way to check out local nursing homes, using this Nursing Home Compare website: Medicare.gov/nursinghomecompare
Nursing Home Compare provides a wealth of information on quality of care and staffing levels at more than 15,000 nursing homes certified for Medicare and Medicaid patients throughout the U.S. One excellent feature is the star rating system. Facilities receive from one to five stars; five being the best. The ratings give a quick snapshot of the facility.
But a nursing home may not be the best option. A variety of community services may help with your personal care and activities, as well as with home modification and equipment to support you staying at home.
Some services, like volunteer groups that help with things like shopping or transportation, may be low-cost or may ask for a voluntary donation. Some services may be available at varied costs depending on where you live and the services you need.
These home services and programs may be available in your community:
- Adult day care;
- Adult day health care, which offers nursing and therapy;
- Meal programs;
- Senior centers;
- Friendly visitor programs;
- Help with shopping and transportation;
- Help with legal questions, paying bills, and other financial matters.
How do you find such services? Pima Council on Aging is the designated Area Agency on Aging serving older adults and their families living in Pima County. The website is pcoa.org, or you can call the PCOA helpline at 790-7262. You may also go to eldercare.gov or call 1-800-677-1116.
