The process of finding appropriate care and services for an elderly loved one can be frustrating. However, with a little time and effort, you will discover there is a wide range of information available, as well as many community resources. All you have to do is to begin by asking the right questions!
1. How do I know it's the right time to begin looking for long term care services?
This can depend on a variety of factors. Your loved one may be unable to manage routine tasks and may be at great risk when they try. For personal reasons, you may not be able to provide a higher level of care for this individual. If you feel overly stressed or physically unable to keep up with the demands of caregiving, you may want to seek advice from a doctor or other health professionals in your community.
Sometimes just opening a dialogue with your loved one can be helpful. Now is the best time to begin gathering information and preparing for the future - sometimes the person you care for can help you sort out these critical issues.
This may also be the perfect time to look into the status of the individual's health care proxy, will and personal wishes about sensitive health care issues.
2. What options do I have if my loved one is in the hospital, is unable to go home and needs to be moved to a senior care facility?
Many families don't realize that they have the right to choose a senior care facility for a loved one in a hospital who needs to be transferred within days. Often the physician and discharge
planner will suggest a specific care setting that has availability. But if you have a preference -such as a facility close to you or one that a family member or friend has recommended - you should contact that facility immediately and ask about availability.
3. What community care and long term care services might be available?
Services range from home health care to nursing care. Seek out help from your doctor and other health professionals about options that might be appropriate for your situation. Begin collecting and reviewing information about different facilities and the services offered. Talk with others who have had similar experiences.
Included in this publication is a valuable resource list. Visit the web sites and contact some of the organizations on the list for more information.
4. What should I look for in a facility or senior care program?
Visit several facilities and programs, and take notes. Jot down your impressions, using all five senses. What does it smell like? Is there a friendly atmosphere? Is there an air of professionalism? Has the building been updated? Is there an opportunity for the residents to enjoy the outdoors? In adult care facilities and nursing home facilities, look for the posted results of New York State Department of Health surveys and additional accreditations.
Be sure to leave with printed materials such as brochures, activity calendars, and menus to review.
5. What questions should I ask?
First of all, come prepared with a list of questions. Don't feel you're intruding by asking too many questions!
Ask about staffing - what is the staff/resident ratio? What is the ratio on weekends and in the evenings? If your loved one needs a special diet or transportation to doctors, ask if it is available. How many volunteers are involved in the programs? Is there an orientation for the prospective resident? How involved are residents and family members in care decisions?
Investigate the security system. What types of personal care services are available? Will the loved one be able to access worship services? Is the location convenient for your loved one's visitors?
Finally, ask residents, employees and visitors for their impressions.
6. What is the next step when we find an appropriate facility or program?
The caseworker or social worker at that facility can help you with the process. For adult care facilities and nursing facilities, New York State mandates the completion of a standard evaluation form called a Patient Review Instrument (PRI) and screening by a health care professional. The professional can walk you through the financial arrangements as well. Also, discuss the support services that may be available for your loved one when and if they need them.
Once your loved one has been admitted into a facility, your continued involvement is necessary. Family members who remain involved are key to ensuring that their loved one receives the highest quality of care.
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