When it comes to choosing a nursing home or assisted living facility for a loved one, our gut instinct is often the best guide. That "ick" factor - that uneasy feeling you get when walking through the doors - is usually a sign that something isn't quite right. But what exactly should you be looking and listening for when touring potential care facilities? And how can you move past the initial discomfort to find the right fit?
Dig Deeper Than the Lobby
It's easy to be swayed by the shiny, well-appointed lobbies designed to impress visitors. But as The Seattle Times reports, you need to look past the decorative touches and focus on the sights, sounds, and smells that give you a true sense of the facility. "When I tour a building, I listen first. Is it loud? Are call bells ringing nonstop?" says Mark Sanchez, CEO of United Hebrew nursing home in New Rochelle, New York. He also advises paying attention to any odors and the way residents are interacting with staff.
Check the Data, But Don't Rely on It Fully
The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) does maintain a helpful Care Compare tool that provides star ratings and other data on nursing homes. But as the Associated Press cautions, these ratings "can be notoriously unreliable" due to self-reported information. They're a good starting point to rule out the worst facilities, but shouldn't be the only factor in your decision.
What this really means is that you can't just trust the numbers - you have to dig deeper. Look at the facility's ownership, staffing levels, and history of violations. And of course, don't forget to rely on your own observations and instincts during in-person tours.
Ask the Right Questions
When visiting potential nursing homes or assisted living communities, come prepared with a list of important questions. Recent analysis suggests focusing on areas like staff training and turnover, resident engagement and activities, and the facility's approach to managing complex medical conditions. Don't be afraid to ask tough questions - your loved one's wellbeing is at stake.
The bigger picture here is that choosing the right long-term care facility is about more than just checking boxes. It requires a holistic assessment that combines objective data with your own subjective impressions. By trusting your gut and doing your due diligence, you can find a care setting that truly meets your loved one's needs - without the ick factor.