Some of the things we’re called upon to do are difficult on many levels. For example, it’s not easy to find the right nursing home for a loved one. The day you move your elderly relative into their new room at a residential facility, you need reassurance you’re doing the right thing.
In one nearby town, the Lucas family realized their beloved grandmother, Pearl, was no longer able to live at home. In fact, she had been admitted to the hospital with a major stroke. Fortunately, Pearl had signed a medical power of attorney and a durable power of attorney appointing her grandson, Oliver, to handle her affairs. Oliver needed help, though, when it came to finding the right place for Pearl.
Understand Your Options
Before signing the papers for a room at the nearest nursing home, confirm your loved one’s diagnosis. Pinpoint the type of care needed. Some people may need 24/7 assistance, while others just need someone to stop by to help with medication or bathing. Residential care is not the only option. It’s possible you only need the following services instead:
- In-home care provides services for those who are unable to leave home without either assistance from another person or the assistance of special equipment.
- Independent Living Facilities provide safe environments for senior citizens in need of little or no medical assistance.
- Assisted Living Facilities, though similar to independent living facilities, offer services to people who don’t need a lot of help.
Pearl needed a level of care that was too great for the alternatives. She needed 24/7 residential care. Oliver moved on to the next phase of his search.
Research, Research, Research
First, he read the Rights of Nursing Facility Residents so he would know what to expect from reputable nursing homes.
Next, he began to research nearby nursing homes. Alabama’s Bureau of Health Providers licenses and certifies health care facilities like nursing homes. They even maintain free directories of health care facilities. At their site, you can compare nursing facilities on a national level.
Ask for references from friends and neighbors. There’s a good possibility that someone you know has been faced with the same problem you have: finding affordable care that meets your needs.
Oliver looked at online reviews and researched a facility’s licensing status before touring any facilities. He also got some great tips from Pearl’s neighbors and friends. Eventually, he found a great long term care facility near Pearl’s hometown. Not only did she get the nursing care she needed, her friends and family were able to visit often.
Learn More About Finding – and Paying for – Nursing Homes.
The attorneys at Miller Estate and Elder Law assist clients with applying for the right public benefits, including Medicaid. For a free consultation, contact us at 256-251-2137 or use our convenient Contact Form. Although we’re located in Anniston, we also help clients in the Birmingham, Gadsden, Hoover, Talladega, Vestavia Hills, and surrounding areas.
See also:
Finding Nursing Home Alternatives