Deciding on a nursing home for yourself or a loved one is a big step, and it’s important to consider a variety of factors. Things like the quality of care, emotional well-being, and cost all play a role. While the process can feel overwhelming, knowing your options can help you find a facility that meets your needs.
Our goal is to give you an in-depth overview of the nursing home community, including the benefits and drawbacks and the admissions process. Knowing these elements will help you make designs that align with your requirements and wants.
What Is a Nursing Home?
A nursing home is a residential facility that provides full-time support for people who need help with daily activities and medical care. While some residents are younger individuals with chronic illnesses or disabilities, most are older adults. As of 2020, there were approximately 15,300 nursing homes in the United States.
These facilities play a key role in offering consistent care for people who need extra support. Depending on your needs, you’ll find a variety of services available.
Skilled Nursing Care
Licensed nurses provide medical care, including monitoring health conditions, wound care, and managing complex health needs.
Help With Daily Activities
Staff assist with tasks like bathing, dressing, eating, and grooming. This support helps residents maintain their dignity while getting the care they need.
Medical Monitoring and Medication Management
To treat chronic or ongoing health issues and avoid complications, nursing homes offer safe, continuous medical monitoring. To guarantee the residents are safe and healthy, trained staff check their vital signs, give medication, and work alongside certified healthcare workers.
Rehabilitation Services
Speech, physical, and occupational therapy are important rehabilitation services many nursing homes offer. These treatment methods help with patient rehabilitation following diseases, surgical procedures, or injuries. The goal is to use them to increase the resident’s general movement, functionality, and communication.
Social and Recreational Activities
Many nursing homes offer activities to keep residents socially engaged and emotionally supported. These can improve mental health and overall quality of life.
How Do You Get Someone Admitted to a Nursing Home?
According to the CDC, approximately 1.3 million people live in nursing homes across the country. If you’re considering this option for your loved one, it’s important to understand the steps and planning involved in the admission process.
1. Needs Assessment
Start by talking to healthcare professionals to understand your loved one’s medical and personal care needs. This will help you figure out the right level of care, like skilled nursing for medical support or memory care for dementia. Think about their daily needs, like medication management or help with dressing, as well as their preferences for routines and social activities. This way, you can ensure they get the care they need while maintaining their quality of life.
2. Facility Research and Selection
Look at the amenities, staff, reputation, location, and services each facility offers. During your visits, pay attention to cleanliness, how staff interact with residents, and whether the community feels welcoming and active. Speak with staff and residents to get an honest sense of daily life there—residents can share what they enjoy, while staff can answer questions about individualized care plans and how they handle emergencies. Finally, trust your instincts—does it feel like a place where your loved one would feel safe, cared for, and supported? Taking the time to evaluate all these factors will help you make the best decision.
3. Financial Planning
The national average cost for nursing home care in the United States is approximately $8,669 per month for a semi-private room and $9,733 per month for a private room. When evaluating facilities, ask about payment options, such as whether they accept Medicaid, Medicare, or long-term care insurance. It’s also a good idea to explore potential senior housing tax credits or assistance programs that could help with costs. Be sure to confirm the level of care they provide, including services like skilled nursing, physical therapy, or specialized support for conditions such as dementia.
4. Application Process
Fill out and submit all of the required documents, including consent forms, financial records, and medical records. Set up an interview or evaluation with the nursing home administration team to talk about the resident’s needs and create a care plan.
5. Admission and the Transition Process
During the planning stage, develop a customized care plan with the nursing home based on any special needs. Upon admission, provide physical and emotional support for your loved one, including introducing them to other residents and staff and helping arrange their living area. This helps build a feeling of community and smoothes the transition process.
6. Ongoing Communication
To address any problems and check the quality of care, keep in regular contact with the facility’s staff. Advocate for your loved one’s needs and preferences by being present at care plan meetings. Keeping in constant contact helps guarantee they get the highest standard of care and attention possible.
What Are the Advantages of Nursing Homes?
Being part of a nursing home can offer several benefits that make them a good option for long-term care. These advantages can help both you and your family feel more at ease. Some of the main benefits of nursing homes include:
| Benefits of Nursing Homes | Description |
|---|---|
| Comprehensive Care | Ongoing medical care and assistance are available to residents around the clock. The staff ensures residents take medication and attend appointments while helping them retain their independence. |
| Multidisciplinary Care Teams | Facilities often have access to specialized healthcare providers for residents, including nutritionists, geriatricians, and mental health professionals. |
| Security and Safety | Well-trained staff play a key role in maintaining a safe environment, preventing accidents or injuries, and caring for residents with cognitive conditions like Alzheimer's or dementia. |
| Access to Specialized Services | Many nursing homes offer specialized care programs tailored to individual needs. For example, residents with Alzheimer's may benefit from a secure unit and structured routines to ensure safety and comfort. |
| Relief for Families | Families can focus on maintaining their relationships with loved ones rather than feeling overwhelmed by caregiving. This support gives families peace of mind knowing their loved ones are well cared for by professionals. |
For many people, knowing their loved one is safe and cared for in a place that focuses on their health and well-being is a key factor in their decision to choose a nursing home.
What Are the Disadvantages of Nursing Homes?
It’s also important to consider the downsides of nursing homes.
| Challenges in Nursing Homes | Description |
|---|---|
| Loss of Independence | The transition from an independent lifestyle to community living with a set schedule can be challenging for some residents, leading to resistance or difficulties adjusting. |
| Limited Personalization | Nursing homes may not be able to offer the same level of familiarity or the personal touch as home care since they’re institutional environments. Residents may have limitations on their daily routines, schedules, and food choices, curtailing their personal autonomy. |
| Variability in Quality of Care | Employee turnover, staffing levels, and differences in management strategies can greatly affect the quality and consistency of care. |
| Emotional Impact | Residents may experience feelings of isolation, loneliness, or depression due to being away from friends, family, and familiar surroundings. |
| Infection Risks | Living in close quarters with other residents can increase the risk of spreading communicable diseases or infections, especially for those with weakened immune systems. Illnesses like the flu or gastrointestinal viruses are more common in community living settings. |
Adjusting to community living can be difficult, especially for those who experience anxiety or cognitive challenges. It’s important to carefully weigh the pros and cons of nursing homes to help you make the best choice for your loved one.
Other Names for Nursing Homes
Nursing homes might go by different names depending on their services and focus:
- Skilled Nursing Facility: Focused on rehabilitation and medical services provided by licensed healthcare professionals.
- Long-Term Care Facility: Provides extended care for people with chronic conditions or those needing ongoing medical treatment.
- Residential Care Facility: Offers a home-like setting with personal care to support daily activities and routines.
- Elder Care Home: Specifically designed for older adults, offering support tailored to their unique needs.
Understanding the different types of facilities can help you choose the one that best meets your loved one’s needs.
Exploring Nursing Home Options With HUD Housing Network
Choosing the right living arrangement for your loved one is an important decision, especially when considering nursing homes. While they provide essential care for many, they’re not always the best fit for every situation. Exploring alternative resources can help you find the most suitable solution for their needs and comfort.
HUD Housing Network connects you with agencies that offer personalized support for seniors, including assistance with meals, transportation, healthcare services, affordable housing, and more. Visit our Counseling Agencies to explore resources designed to meet your loved one’s unique needs.
