Committed families can protect their elderly loved ones

When families in Washington make the difficult decision to place their elderly loved one in the care of a nursing home facility, chances are the weeks and months leading up to the transition were filled with apprehension. Despite their efforts to arrange their care for their family member, a conclusion was reached that it would better benefit everyone if a nursing home took over the primary care responsibilities of helping their family member. 

In these situations, a big concern for many families is the safety of their loved one. There are undoubtedly facilities that lack trained staff or who fail to implement required policies designed to protect the residents of their facility. In these situations, patients who live in a poorly managed facility are at a much higher risk of being neglected, injured or taken advantage of. According to verywellhealth.com, when people are seeking a trustworthy nursing home, they should look for the following qualities:

  • A well-rounded social environment, complete with activities for the residents. 
  • A well-maintained facility and a friendly atmosphere that is homely and comfortable. 
  • Personable staff members who are outgoing and interested in each of the residents. 
  • High-quality food and a menu that features varied food options. 

Depending on the needs of a family’s loved one, they may select a facility that is trained in a variety of areas. For example, Web MD says that some of the services a nursing home may provide could include distribution of medication, 24-hour emergency and medical care, and assistance with daily needs such as bathing and hygiene. When families spend considerable time researching and comparing their options for nursing home care, they may be better able to make a decision that they feel confident about.