How to choose the right nursing home in Indiana

When an individual can no longer safely manage their own care, it may be necessary to transition them into nursing home care. You will struggle to make a decision when choosing a nursing facility in Indiana. You want to choose a facility which prioritizes dignity, health and safety for your family member, at a price you can afford. Toward that end, the Indianapolis attorneys at Frank & Kraft offer suggestions to help you choose the right nursing home in Indiana.

Recognizing the Need for Nursing Home Care

Transitioning a loved one to a nursing home can be emotionally and practically difficult because most seniors (understandably) prefer to stay in familiar surroundings. Home care or family caregiving may not be possible for a while. Nursing home care may be the best option if your loved one needs constant supervision, medical support, or you are concerned about their safety if left alone. A reputable nursing home can provide the type of round-the-clock care and attention your loved one needs.

Elder Abuse and Neglect

Concerns about elder abuse and neglect are often paramount when considering nursing home placement. Unfortunately, abuse and negligence are common in elder care settings. It is important to thoroughly research the facility and to remain vigilant after placement to ensure your loved ones’ well-being. Conducting regular, unannounced visits to the facility and checking in with staff and residents can help verify that your loved one receives proper care and attention.

Key Resources for Finding Indiana Nursing Homes

Indiana offers several helpful resources to assist in your search for a suitable nursing home. Start by visiting the Indiana State Department of Health website. It provides “reports” on licensed nursing homes in the state that provide insight into their compliance with safety and health standards. The Indiana Long-Term Care Ombudsman program offers support and advocacy to residents of nursing home and can be helpful if you have concerns during or following your search. Nursing Home Compare is a tool on the federal Medicare website that allows you to compare nursing homes according to their star ratings, inspection results, and quality of service. Utilizing these resources helps ensure that the facilities you consider meet Indiana’s standards for elder care.

Essential Questions to Ask

Once you have identified nursing homes that meet your preliminary requirements, you can narrow down your choices by speaking with facility administrators and asking targeted questions. Here are some questions you should ask:

• What’s the monthly cost of care for your loved one? Understand the cost structure, including what is included in the monthly fee and what services are billed separately.
• What is the resident-to-staff ratio? This ratio directly affects the level of care that each resident receives. A lower ratio often indicates more personalized attention.
• What are the facility’s employee screening and hiring practices? It is important to know the facility’s hiring practices and background checks for staff. This will give you peace of mind that they are qualified, trustworthy people. What recreational activities are offered, and how often? Engaging, regular activities enhance residents’ quality of life, keeping them active and socially connected.
• How are complaints from residents or family members handled? Clear protocols for handling concerns show a commitment to transparency and resident satisfaction.
• Is there on-site transportation for residents? Transportation for medical appointments and outings is essential for residents’ independence and access to healthcare.
• Evaluating the Facility’s Environment
• While asking questions is critical, it is equally important to observe the facility’s atmosphere and cleanliness. It is important to schedule a formal tour, but it’s also helpful to visit the facility unannounced to get an idea of how things run on a daily basis. Observe interactions between staff members and residents. Positive, respectful interactions are indicative of a caring atmosphere. Observe the cleanliness of the facility, the general mood among residents, and the speed at which staff responds to calls or requests for assistance. Speak to current residents and their families if possible. Their experiences can provide valuable insight into the quality of care and whether they feel comfortable and supported.

Involving Your Loved One in the Decision

Whenever possible, involve your loved one in the decision-making process. Understanding their preferences for living arrangements, daily routines, and social engagement will help you find a nursing facility that is aligned with their needs. For more information on choosing a nursing home in Indiana, please join our FREE seminar. Call the Indianapolis elder law attorneys of

Frank & Kraft

at

(317) 684-500

for an appointment. Read More! Latest Posts by Paul A. Kraft Estate Planning Attorney (see all)