Nursing Homes

Introduction to Nursing Homes

Nursing homes, also known as Long-Term Care or continuing care centres and auxiliary hospitals, are homes for people who are not able to live independently in their own homes. Nursing homes provide room and board and a range of care services, from personal care with nursing supervision to skilled medical and nursing care. Eligibility for placement in a nursing home is based upon a person's care needs, determined and arranged for by Community Care Access Centres (CCACs) or Home Care through Regional Health Authorities. The resident pays for the accommodation, while the government pays care and programs.

Tips on Choosing Nursing Homes

Finding the right Nursing Home is as individual as you are - it's where you or your loved one will make a home, make new friends and live life to the fullest. There are some basic steps that should be taken in order to ensure that the Nursing Home fits the individual. The Care Guide recommends keeping these ten considerations in mind:

1. Define your requirements and distinguish between wants and needs. What do you need from a Nursing Home?
2. Where should the Nursing Home be located? Make sure the Nursing Home is proximate to friends and family; visitors are very important! Is urban or suburban preferred, how will the resident be transported to and from family events, and so on.
3. What is the demeanour of people currently at the Nursing Home? Take the time to speak with residents. Visit the Nursing Home at different times and on different days during the week. Schedule a visit during the weekend and another on the weekend. Are residents involved in activities or are they spending hours by the television?
4. How much can you afford to spend? Cost varies depending on the type of provider. Nursing Homes may be subsidized by government programs. There may be wide variances in budget - and availability. Find out what is included - and what is considered an extra.
5. Review the Nursing Home's latest inspection report. What are the provisions for safety and ease of use? Are there sufficient elevators? How are dangerous substances and medications kept out of reach from residents? Is the Nursing Home easy to navigate? Is the Nursing Home well lit? Are there sufficient bathing facilities? Are washrooms easily accessible?
6. What is the demeanour of Nursing Home employees and are they certified? Are they happy and well-paid? Ask staff how they feel about working at the Nursing Home, and ask residents about the staff. Find out about certification and medical training, number of medical personnel on staff. Is the Nursing Home adequately staffed during off-hours or on the weekends?
7. Tour the Nursing Home's kitchen and ask to review menus. Does the Nursing Home provide well-balanced meals? Will the Nursing Home accommodate those with special dietary requirements? Ask about feeding assistance if your relative requires it.
8. What type of activities does the Nursing Home run? Do they provide additional programs through communities and volunteer organizations to encourage sociability and satisfaction among residents? Are suggestions and recommendations welcome and followed-up on?
9. What type of amenities does the Nursing Home offer? Some Nursing Homes offer additional amenities such as in-room televisions and music systems, private suites with carpeting and drapery, which can be filled with their own decorations or furniture and more.
10. Arrange for a trial stay. Many Nursing Homes permit overnight or short-term stay, and can also be a viable alternative during short-term illnesses or family absence - good time to try a Nursing Home on for size!

Feel free to contact us at 1-800-311-CARE or info@thecareguide.com should you have any questions or require further assistance in finding an appropriate nursing home.