Choose a Nursing Home with Confidence

Transitioning your loved one into a nursing home facility is tough emotionally. And in many instances the reasons for making this decision offer little comfort. But there are some things you can do to feel confident about the choices you make.

What follows is a list of chronological steps to empower you to find the best long-term care facility for your loved one. These tips will help you build confidence as you continue to advocate for the one you love.

Get up to speed on the most common types of care.

There are about three common types of long-term care: Custodial (personal care), intermediate, and skilled nursing care.

Custodial care is provided to individuals who need help with personal activities like dressing, bathing, eating, etc. These services are usually administered by aides rather than trained medical personnel.

Intermediate care is offered to individuals who require rehabilitative therapy and medicine in addition to custodial care. These services or ordinarily administered by licensed therapists and registered or licensed practical nurses.

Skilled nursing is offered to individuals who are bedridden or have disabilities that prevent them for caring for themselves. Services are administered by licensed medical personnel through the orders of an attending physician.

For additional tips and information, download our Selecting a Nursing Home Checklist.