The Truth about Nursing Facilities

When you or a loved one is in need of rehabilitation in a nursing facility, trying to sort out truth from fiction can be tough. In fact, the phrase "nursing home" often brings to mind a terrible mental image of dreary, smelly facilities with uncaring staff and neglected residents. The good news is that many of the unpleasant things associated with nursing homes such as limited privacy, lack of independence and unpalatable food are things of the past. The bad news is with such a wide variety of outstanding nursing homes available, it can be tough to choose the one that's best for you or your loved one. A good way to start is by checking the Georgia Healthcare Association's comprehensive consumer guide as well as by visiting prospective nursing homes. During your visit, look for a welcoming atmosphere in addition to checking out the facilities. Talk to both staff and residents to get a firsthand idea of what it's like to live there. Make sure that the nursing home can meet your needs and has plenty of activities you're interested in. Start off on the right foot by discovering the truth about nursing facilities.

• Nursing facilities are not like hospitals. When a patient needs

personal rehabilitation care, that often requires in-depth medical attention. However, many nursing homes strive to provide a homelike environment that includes respect, companionship and understanding. In addition to a wide range of medical services, nursing facilities also offer a variety of activities and recreation, delicious food and other non-medical services such as housekeeping and laundry.

• Residents retain independence and privacy. There's a tendency to think that people staying in nursing homes become more like inmates rather than residents. Luckily, this is not the case. Nursing Home Residents actually have a bill of rights that legally outlines residents' rights pertaining to services and fees, privacy, respect, medical care and money. A high quality facility will not only honor those rights but will strive to honor residents' preferences, personal interests and choices. This includes taking measures to respect residents' privacy such as knocking before entering a room, and providing quiet time and space when desired.
• Residents are not overmedicated. A major misconception about nursing homes is that residents are overmedicated. In fact, residents have the right to refuse medication. The medication that is given is reviewed not only by a physician but also by a pharmacist and qualified nursing staff member to ensure proper administration of the correct medication in the correct dosage.
• Nursing homes are not depressing. Another big misconception about nursing homes is that they smell bad, serve terrible food and the residents never get to go anywhere or do anything. With a quality facility, this is never the case. There are new approaches to cleaning, ventilation and disposal that have drastically improved the overall atmosphere in nursing homes. Maintaining a clean, comfortable environment is of the utmost importance. Great care and creativity is also taken with the menu. Every meal includes balanced, delicious options, even for those who have special dietary requirements. Finally, residents are offered a variety of opportunities to attend outings and events - family and friends are invited!
• All nursing homes are not the same. While the nightmarish facilities that the phrase "nursing home" once described are now almost entirely a thing of the past, it's true that not all nursing homes are the same. To ensure you or a loved one has the best experience and receives the best care possible, be sure to thoroughly research a facility before making a decision to stay.

About the Author: Beth A. Stevens is a rehabilitation care facility expert and contributing author who enjoys helping families find the best possible care for their loved ones.

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