The next step is to make a list of nursing homes in your
area which are located near your family and friends, that
have a good track record with the State Survey agency (CMS)
and the Ombudsman and that provide the care and services that
you need. Then, call the nursing homes on your list. Ask about
the following factors. They are very important and can narrow
your list of nursing homes.
Location Location is very important. If you choose
a nursing home that is close to family and friends, they may
be able to visit more often, and may reduce feelings of loneliness.
Also, they can act as an advocate (supporter) for the resident.
Location, however, should not be the primary factor in selecting
a good nursing home.
Availability Nursing homes have a limited number of
beds. When you find a nursing home you like, you should find
out if there would be a bed available or if you can be added
to a waiting list. Although nursing homes do not have to accept
all applicants for admission, they do have to comply with Civil
Rights provisions that prohibit discrimination based on race,
religion, etc.
Staffing It is important that there is an adequate
number of staff to care for you or your loved one and that they
are well trained and capable of performing their duties. This
helps make sure that the residents are well cared for and enjoy
a good quality of life.
Medicare and Medicaid If you will be using Medicare
or Medicaid to pay for your care, make certain that the nursing
homes on your list accept Medicare or Medicaid payment. Often,
a facility will set aside only a few beds for Medicare or Medicaid
residents. Find out if the home will have Medicare or Medicaid
"beds" available when you need one. This is particularly important
for people who change from Medicare or paying privately to Medicaid
during the course of their stay at a nursing home. If this happens,
you may have to transfer to another facility if "Medicaid" beds
are not available. Even when Medicaid certified beds are available,
under current law a nursing home does not have to give one to
a resident.
Services and Fees The nursing home must inform you,
in writing, about its services, charges, and fees before you
enter the home. Most facilities charge a basic rate that covers
room, meals, housekeeping, linen, general nursing care, recreation,
and some personal care services. There may be extra charges
for personal services, such as haircuts, manicures, and telephones.
Get a copy of the fee schedule in advance so you can compare
them with other homes.
Religious and Cultural Preferences Do the nursing
homes on your list offer the type of religious and cultural
environment that you prefer, including any special diets your
faith practice may require?
Language Do the staff and majority of residents speak
your primary language? If not, you may not be able to communicate
your needs and may feel lonely in the environment.
Special Care Needs Are the nursing homes on your list
able to provide care for any special medical condition you may
need? Examples of medical conditions are dementia, End-Stage
Renal Disease (ESRD), or Alzheimer's.
