When planning for your elderly loved one’s care, one concern you may have is whether nursing home care is suitable for them.
Accordingly, your decision involves assessing various aspects, from medical to financial considerations. Some factors to consider when deciding whether to place your loved one in a nursing home are:
- Medical needs: A nursing home may be an appropriate option if your loved one requires constant medical supervision or has a condition that necessitates specialized care. This includes wound dressing, intravenous medications, physical therapy and similar care you may not be able to provide at home.
- Required daily assistance: Evaluate if your loved one needs regular assistance with daily living activities, such as bathing, dressing, eating, and toileting. If these needs are beyond what you or in-home care can provide, a nursing home can offer the necessary support.
- Safety concerns: If there is a risk of your loved one falling or if they have a cognitive condition, such as Alzheimer’s disease, that leads to wandering and safety issues, the structured environment of a nursing home may be able to provide a safer environment for them.
- Financial considerations: Nursing home care can be costly. It is important to review your loved one’s financial resources, including insurance coverage, savings and potential government assistance, to determine if nursing home care is a sustainable option.
Other considerations may involve personal preferences and values, especially since every situation is unique.
Make informed decisions with knowledgeable guidance
Whether you are considering nursing home care or other long-term care options for your loved one, it is advisable to talk to an attorney knowledgeable in elder law to ensure you are making informed decisions and developing solutions based on your and your loved one’s unique situation.