Determining What Type of Nursing Home Facility Your Loved One Needs

    PHOENIX, AZ, December 31, 2011 /24-7PressRelease/ -- When the thought of a nursing home comes to mind, most people think of 24-hour care facilities. But today, there are many variations of a nursing home, designed to give your loved one the specialized, personal care he or she needs. Because of this, it can be difficult when choosing a nursing home for your loved one. By researching potential nursing homes and understanding your family member's needs and desires, you can make an informed decision about his or her future.

Modern Nursing Homes

A majority of present-day nursing homes provide services to the elderly, along with offering nursing care and rehabilitation to assist with any injuries, illnesses or functional disabilities. Within the past decade, the level of care provided by nursing homes has increased. Many nursing home staffs now provide a significant percentage of the care that was once performed by hospital staff.

Aside from medical care, modern nursing home staffs provide an array of other services, such as:

- Physical therapy
- Occupational therapy
- Speech therapy
- Pharmaceutical services
- Equipment rentals
- Specialty aid with cancers and other illnesses
- Respiratory therapy

Nursing Home Options for Independent Seniors

One popular type of nursing home facility is the independent living home, comprised of apartment units. This facility offers housing for those who can take care of themselves, but just need someone to check on them every now and then. Independent living homes also provide structured social activities and a range of entertainment options for residents.

Another common model is assisted living, which offers more care than an independent living facility, but still provides seniors with independence. Residents generally live in apartment units and are capable of caring for themselves, with the staff providing daily visits and assistance as needed. These facilities often include housekeeping and meal delivery services. Another option fits into the independent care category: congregate care, which is another model that lies between independent homes and 24-hour care nursing homes.

If your loved one still lives at home but requires the help of a caregiver, there is an adult day care service that offers meals, assistance and medical care if you or another caretaker is gone for a period of time.

Nursing Home Options for Seniors Who Need More Care

A skilled, reputable nursing home is ideal for those who need increased care. These 24-hour care facilities are often what people envision when the term "nursing home" is mentioned. These facilities provide medical assistance, onsite facilities and staff that is available around the clock. Because these facilities are licensed by the government, they must a specific standard of care to remain in operation.

With time, if your loved one's medical condition worsened or if he or she is faced with a terminal condition, hospice care is an option. Hospice facilities combine the comforts of home care with intensive care in a full-time facility. Hospice provides emotional care and medical care to help those who are dying and their families cope with the reality of death.

If you live in the Phoenix, Arizona, area and suspect a family member is suffering from nursing home abuse or neglect, please visit the website of experienced nursing home abuse attorneys Cullan & Cullan, M.D., J.D. at www.stopnursinghomeabuse.org.

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