What Should You Consider When Choosing a Nursing Home for Your Loved One?

One of the most difficult questions I face as a lawyer is when someone calls me up asking what I think of a nursing home and what I would recommend as a nursing home if I’m going to choose a nursing home for my loved one. You have to discuss with the nursing home what your concerns are, what concerns they have, what you can anticipate, and how you can help them monitor the care. Go there, tell them your expectations, find out what they’re committing to you, and monitor that. Don’t be afraid to ask questions; you are entitled to find out what their plan of care is. It’s that open dialogue that’s important. It’s obviously important to visit and spend time with your loved one, but I think where people don’t spend enough time—because it’s awkward and it’s not typical—to question healthcare providers. Question them, question the administrator, the assistant administrator, the director of nurses, the nurses that are caring for your mom or your dad, and other residents. Talk to everyone and gain that information.