Your loved one has been admitted to a nursing home. Here’s what you can do to keep them safer and more comfortable:
- Visit often and at various times of the day.
- Make your loved one’s stay as pleasant as possible. Bring in reminders of home. Bring adequate supplies of your loved one’s clothing. Make sure each item is comfortable, easy on, easy off, and that each item is marked with your loved one’s name.
- Be pleasant to the staff, and give special attention to the CNAs; they are often overworked, underpaid, and underappreciated. Occasionally bring a box of chocolates, some donuts or another treat. Mark the box with your loved one’s name and a brief note of appreciation.
- Check your loved one’s skin, especially backside and heels.
- Is your loved one’s water pitcher full? Is the water cool and fresh? Is it within reach?
- Is your loved one clean and tidy? Is the room clean? Is the bathroom clean?
- Is the call button within reach? Does it work? Does staff promptly respond?
- Is your loved one receiving needed assistance?
- Are activities offered? Do they meet your loved one’s needs? In a future post, we’ll talk more about activities.
- A family member should attend Care Conferences. If you are not invited, find out why.
- If you have power of attorney or authorization, review your loved one’s nursing home chart. In a future post, we’ll tell you what to look for.
- If you see things that are wrong, bring them to the attention of staff and make notes. If your concerns aren’t addressed, take them up the chain of command.
If you or a loved one have been injured in a nursing home or assisted living facility or you suspect neglect/abuse in a facility, give us a call 209-521-1269. Consultations are always free.