ADVICE ON HELPING A LOVED ONE FIND A NURSING HOME

Dan and I represent victims of medical neglect and abuse in Virginia long term care facilities, nursing homes and assisted living facilities.

We see what happens when your loved one is neglected, forgotten about, does not receive proper care, does not receive proper attention etc.

You don't want to know what can happen in a nursing home - trust me. To that end, we often give advice to people on how to chose a facility. While not all neglect is preventable, there are some things families SHOULD do in the beginning that can help along the way.

For more detailed information on the subject, you can read many articles on nursing home abuse, how to chose a facility, .

1. Visit before you select a facility.

2. Ask family members of current residents what they think.

3. Ask to meet the CNA's (Certified nursing assistants) that will be providing most of the hands on care.

4. Get to know the DON - Director of Nursing.

5. Get a copy of EVERY document you sign and sometimes you can ask an attorney to negotiate the admissions contract on your behalf.

6. Attend Care Plan meetings and other meetings re: your loved one's health care.

7. keep notes and share concerns with everyone - doctor included. Sometimes you will need to share these concerns in writing - verbal communication may not get very far.

8. Don't take their word for it if you have concerns - get a 2nd outside opinion.

9. Take your loved one to their PCP or hospital if needed.

10. Visit often and at different times.

11. Do not assume the care will change - move your loved one if you fear neglect.

12. Call your local agency on aging if you are concerned with neglect or abuse and file a formal complaint.

Additional questions? Feel free to call our office.