Finding the right nursing home for your loved one is incredibly important, especially as statistics indicate that one in three elders are abused at these homes. Common problems at substandard nursing homes include inadequate medical care, malnutrition, preventable accidents and untreated bedsores.
It can be difficult to determine how well a nursing home operates behind the scenes when you’re scoping one out. When you’re receiving brochures and information, do you know what questions to ask? Do you know how to research information on nursing home violations?
There are many factors to consider when choosing the right facility for your loved ones, here are five traits that should raise red flags during your search.
- High staff turnover. One question to ask is the average amount of time nursing home staff has been employed there. If the place is like a revolving door, it could be a red flag. Also, watch for interactions between staff and residents. Does staff know each resident by name? Do they residents look comfortable interacting with staff members?
- Residents lack independence. There is such a thing as too much and too little independence, so you need to find a place that provides just enough. Some facilities follow a very strict daily routine while others allow residents to choose what they want to do, how they want their rooms to look and more.
- Severe violations. Quality over quantity can count in some cases. If the nursing home facility you’re considering has only a few violations, it could be a good thing. However, if these violations are severe such as a resident wandering off the facility, you may want to keep looking.
- A history of violations. Nursing homes are regulated at the state and federal levels, which means its fairly easy for families to research if a facility has a reputation for substandard care and severe violations.
- Not answering your questions. If it seems like staff isn’t being honest with you or is unable to answer some questions, it could signal that they’re trying to hide something. When you’re seeking out the best facility for your loved one, you have a right to get the answers you need to make an educated decision.
By considering some of these red flags, it may make it easier for you to decide where you do not want your loved one to stay. If you think that a nursing home is neglecting or abusing residents, find out how to report nursing home abuse.
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