How can I assure quality care when my loved one enters a nursing home or assisted living community?
Most caregivers experience a twinge of guilt when the time comes for their loved one to be placed in a nursing home or assisted living community. The transition is difficult for the caregiver and the affected individual, and both often experience anxiety and sadness, among other strong emotions. After a period of time and with some adjustments, however, both parties can become acclimated with the new care setting and move forward in the new environment.
Your concern for quality care in this new environment is understandable. In the home setting, for instance, you and your loved one were care partners; you only cared for one person. In a long-term care setting, understand that the ratio of nursing assistants to the residents is oftentimes one to six or one to eight. In other words, instead of the one-on-one care you had been giving your loved one, they will now be among seven or so others being cared for by one person alone, a stark contrast to the level of care they had grown accustomed to previously. This does not mean that the nursing assistants and staff of the care setting are not sensitive or meeting your loved one's needs. It just means that their time is limited in the care of the residents they are assigned. Also, in some instances, the staff needs more training in ways to accommodate the needs of the residents with Alzheimer's and dementia, and as a caregiver, you could share tips and strategies which helped you in managing your loved one's care. This will also help in building relationships with the staff of the care setting, especially if you build trust and acknowledge the work they are doing, treating the staff with consideration and respect.
When the quality of care falls short of your expectations, talk to the staff members in a calm and concerting way. Be positive and encouraging, let them know you are on their team, and by all means, discuss your concerns over specific needs that are lacking in your loved one's care. Give precise examples of things you would like to see done and be clear about your goals. If your expectations are not met, meet with the administrator.
An individual with Alzheimer's disease or dementia is often paranoid and will accuse staff of taking their things. This is very common, yet upsetting for the affected individual and the staff. In these instances, it is important to validate the feelings of the affected individual while showing concern for the staff and quietly working things out. Keep in mind that it is best to leave valuables such as jewelry and other keepsakes at home as your loved one might misplace it unknowingly, or another resident of the care setting might take it. Also, always label personal items such as dentures, eyeglasses and hearing aids.
While abuse in the nursing home and assisted living communities is much less common than abuse at home, it can happen. If you sense a problem with your loved one, or witness any form of abuse with the residents, contact the administrator immediately and your local adult protective services agency.