Putting Your Dad in a Nursing Home: A Guide to Making the Right Decision

As our parents get older, we frequently have to make challenging decisions regarding their care. Choosing whether to place a parent in a nursing home is one of the hardest decisions to make. The greatest way to make sure a loved one is safe, healthy, and receiving the care they require frequently entails placing them in a nursing home, despite the fact that this can be a difficult decision to make.

Investigating nursing homes in your area is the first step in placing your dad there. Find nursing homes with a solid reputation, state licensing, and excellent reviews from bodies like Medicare or the Joint Commission. Visit each facility after you have reduced your alternatives to get a feel for the space and meet the staff. Request a tour and make an effort to see how staff members engage with residents.

After then, think about the price of nursing home care. Depending on where you live, how much care your father requires, and the facility you select, the cost may change. In general, nursing home care can be costly; some institutions have monthly fees of over $10,000. There are, however, means of assisting with the expense, such as Medicaid or long-term care insurance. To discuss your alternatives, it’s crucial to speak with an elder law attorney or financial counselor.

Consider what nursing homes most need when selecting a facility. Volunteers who can provide company and social interaction for residents, as well as well-trained and empathetic staff, are needed in nursing facilities. Additionally, they want cash for initiatives and supplies that would improve the quality of life for locals. To support residents and staff, think about giving your time or resources to a nursing home in your neighborhood. Finally, think about your dad’s living arrangements before placing him in a nursing home. Many elderly individuals opt to live alone, but if they are ill or have mobility limitations, this could be risky. The Administration for Community Living reported in 2019 that 28% of people aged 85 and older live alone. If your father is over 80, it’s critical to evaluate his living condition and determine whether he requires help with everyday tasks.

Putting your dad in a nursing home can be a challenging option, but it frequently results in the greatest outcome for his safety and wellbeing. Look into local options, weigh the costs, and keep in mind what nursing homes most urgently want. Consider your dad’s living condition before making a choice that will benefit both your dad and your family. Remember that you are not going through this process alone and that there are tools at your disposal to assist you in making the best choice.