Nursing home care has been under increasing scrutiny over the last few years. News reports covering elderly neglect and abuse at the hurtful hands of their professional care givers are shamefully common. At times it becomes necessary for a loved one to enter in to the care of an Assisted Living Facility. Nothing is more important then their safety and comfort.

Before you move your parent or spouse into a nursing home make sure you have your facts straight. There are a lot of things to consider when selecting a nursing home; quality of care, cost, medical needs, location, and personal preference.There are isolated incidents of abuse and neglect in Assisted Living Centers. This is by no means the norm. Let’s get the real facts. Here are some of the basic data from the National Nursing Home Survey (1999):

· Number of nursing homes: 18,000

· Number of beds: 1.9 million

· Number of current residents: 1.6 million

· Average length of stay (current resident): 892 days

· Number of discharged residents: 2.5 million

· Average length of stay (discharged resident): 272 days

· Occupancy rate: 87 percent

Quality:

Not all nursing home care is the same. It is important to do your research before making a selection. Here are some ways to research. Check the ownership. A resident’s chances of receiving good care are better at an independent not-for-profit facility than at a for-profit chain. Check with the local ombudsman, the government official in charge of handling nursing home complaints. They should be able to recommend homes in your area. Actually visit the homes after checking several homes go back to your favorite and make unannounced visit. Finally read each nursing home’s 2567 Form. This is the facility’s state inspection survey and they are required to present it upon request.

Cost:

The cost of a nursing home care varies greatly depending on location and possible     surcharges for private paying patients. Medicare and Medicaid clients can typically qualify for great reimbursements and subsidies. Most of the pricing found one the internet is private pay prices meaning for those on Medicare and Medicaid will pay substantially less.

Finding the proper nursing home care is so important to ensure comfort and safety during stressful times. The information on this site will assist you in making the right decision.