ENID, OK - Aging is something everyone has thought about at some point in their life. What we all try not to think about is aging to the point we cannot care for ourselves. Those who are unable to care for themselves often go to long term care facilities, more commonly referred to as "nursing homes." Nursing homes have a long-standing stigma; however, they are necessary. There are many reasons someone may need long term care but one of the most common reasons is they have lost the ability to care for themselves. Loved ones are not always able to provide the appropriate level of care that is needed and there is a variety of health situations that can occur unexpectedly. The transition to living in a facility can seem scary but is often the best solution for the individual to receive essential nursing care. The first step in this process is choosing the right facility for the right person.
No one wants to think of spending their last days on earth in a nursing home. But it does not have to be a complicated or scary process. Often living in a facility allows people to have more social interaction, appropriate nutrition, and vital medical services. When choosing a nursing home that will be appropriate for the person, there are some things that should be considered. First, and most importantly, make sure everyone agrees with the decision, including the person that needs facility care. Talk with family, friends and healthcare providers about nursing homes that provide quality care in your area. Make a list of them. Call and speak with the facilities that are on the list. Also check on the cost of the stay and how payment should be made. Often facilities have admissions clerks or social service personnel who can assist in the applying for long term care Medicaid/Medicare options. You may also call your local AAA and speak to the Ombudsman in your area for a full list of facilities and information on viewing nursing home ratings and state survey information. Finally, visit the facilities you are considering in person to see for yourself if this would be a good fit for you and/or your loved one.
When visiting the facility in person make sure to speak with the administrator, director of nurses, social services director, and the activity director to learn what is offered for quality of life and care for residents at the facility. Calculate distance of location from friends and family so that you can plan plenty of in person visitation. Many fear they will be "left" and "forgotten" in a nursing home. Addressing these fears up front with solutions in mind, can make the transition much smoother. Ask questions about the facility; does it offer physical therapy, if the person should ever need it? Who is the medical director (this doctor will often be the one overseeing your loved one's care during their stay)? Check out the facilities meals, activity calendar and what other services the facility provides, such as: hospice, memory-care, and religious connection, if they ever need it. Before leaving, make sure to talk to a few residents and get their input on the facility. No one knows better than those who already live there!
Although, there is a lot to consider in making the right decision on a nursing home placement, always remember to ask questions. Everyone should understand the process in placing someone in long term care and know the rules and regulations the facility is expected to follow. Understand that during the decision-making process a person can visit a facility more than once before deciding on the placement. If you are diligent when choosing a facility in the beginning, you are less likely to be dissatisfied with the care received and have a better understanding of life in the facility.
These are just a few things to consider and a lot to take in, but if you or anyone you care about has any other questions on how to choose a nursing home, contact the Ombudsman Supervisor at 580-237-2236 or the ombudsman intake line 1-800-211-2116. The Ombudsman are available to speak to your group or organization upon request and as schedules allow. Below are some hyperlinks that you may find useful in searching long term care.
https://surveys.health.ok.gov
https://eldercare.acl.gov/Public/Index.aspx
https://www.medicare.gov/
