What should I know about nursing homes?

May 5, 2020
Kevin Tharpe

Choosing a nursing home for a parent is a challenging task. There is a lot of information you should know about these homes, and getting the information you need to know is harder than you might expect. The right information can make the difference in choosing a home that is safe for your loved one.

There are more than one million people living in a nursing home. These people are all vulnerable to the staff and care facilities of their homes, which is why it is so essential to ensure the home you choose can protect your elder.

Things to look out for

There is a lot to know about nursing homes. Here are some of the essential information that someone in the market for a home should know:

  • Every home is different: between differences in staff and features of the building, nursing homes offer different levels of care. Take some time to confirm the reviews of different homes to begin getting a better understanding of the level of care a home can offer.
  • Read the contracts: some homes will offer contracts that free them from liability if an elder is harmed. Take a fine comb through any documents before signing them. If you are unsure of something in a contract, consult with an attorney.
  • The care you should expect: nursing homes are different from those of assisted care homes in that a nursing home can provide a physician with medical treatment at all hours of the day. If a nursing home cannot offer 24-hour medical care, do not leave your loved one with them.
  • Residents have rights: the residents of nursing homes have a long list of rights. The rights allow a resident to have input on the treatment they receive, selections of food, a right to privacy, choice of doctor, and the right to be free from abuse. Attorneys can ensure no one is infringing on a resident’s rights.

There is always more to know about choosing the right nursing home. An attorney can give essential advice on which home to select if someone needs guidance on choosing a safe nursing home for their loved one.

Take the time to make the choice

There are a lot of factors to consider when choosing the right nursing home. Be thorough in your inspection of a home to ensure your loved one is safe.

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Kevin Tharpe

With 25 years of experience, Kevin understands how estate planning, special needs planning, and government benefits programs work together. This is a crucial element of a thorough plan. He explains your eligibility for benefits programs and ensures that you do not make costly mistakes that may disqualify you or deplete your assets.

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