Tips on Choosing a Long Term Care Facility

Life happens. As we grow older we may be forced, for one reason or another, to contemplate long-term care facilities as an option for ourselves or someone we love. This person may need more attention than we are physically able to provide. Their health concerns may prevent them from living a more independent lifestyle. Do not be mistaken, these facilities are not all created equal. There are many things we can do, as the primary decision maker, to ensure our loved one is getting the best care, and can reside in such a place while maintaining their security, dignity, and lifestyle.

The following tips will help you to make a more informed decision, and give you peace of mind that you are giving your loved one the best care available.

The first consideration should be to decide what level of care is needed for the person in question. Relatively healthy, mobile people may do well in an independent living facility. If there is some question as to the person's ability to care for themselves, assisted living provides trained aides to help with daily tasks and prescription monitoring. People with more serious health ailments may require a nursing home where constant supervision is necessary.

Researching long-term care facilities will be primarily accomplished over the phone. Check the local Council on Aging, Senior Services, or Better Business Bureau for listings and contacts. Call several places and discuss the level of services offered, pricing structure, housing arrangements, etc. and get a basic feel for the places you would be interested in visiting. Schedule an appointment to visit each of your selections and take notes comparing the overall atmosphere of each.

Your first visit should be arranged with the facility director. Later, you may wish to make an unannounced visit, especially if you have any reservations about the first meeting. This will provide a more honest, day-to-day view of the operation.