Nursing Home Abuse Lawsuit News
Facts That Can Help You Make the Right Choice
When independent living is no longer an option for elderly loved ones, many families will need to find a live-in facility that will be devoted to taking care of their aging family member. The various options available usually fall into one of two categories: either assisted living facilities or nursing homes.
Choosing the right care institution can make the difference in your loved one's happiness, vitality and longevity.
Different Types of Live-In Facilities
The main differences between assisted living facilities versus nursing homes are that:
- Assisted living facilities value and promote residents' independence
- Nursing homes offer far more medical care than assisted living facilities
However, while the above distinctions may seem cut and dry, the decision on where to house your loved one is far less so, especially as age and health affect an elderly person's capabilities.
Deciding Between Assisted Living vs. Nursing Homes
The following factors are essential pieces of information that anyone with elderly family members should consider as they decide between assisted living facilities and nursing homes:
- It is illegal for assisted living facilities to provide medical care to their residents. This means that these facilities consider it to be a family's responsibility to make sure residents are getting the medical care they need. As a result, even it your elderly loved one doesn't need extensive medical care now, if (s)he will in the immediate future, a nursing home may be a better choice.
- Have your elderly loved one undergo a thorough physical and mental health exam before choosing a live-in facility. Although this step almost never occurs, it is crucial. Such exams can identify the early signs of potentially devastating conditions, such as Alzheimer’s, which may require the extensive care that only a nursing home can provide.
- Assisted living facilities offer some extra services, most of which they charge extra for. Services, such as helping residents dress, eat, bathe, etc., are usually provided at assisted living facilities – however, each will come at an extra fee. The more help a resident needs, the more expensive his cost of care will be, and the more likely he should be housed at a nursing home.
Moving your loved one into a live-in care facility is emotionally difficult. By taking time to do some research, you can ensure that you make the right choice for both you and your loved one.
(Source: New York Times)
Do you know someone victimized by nursing home abuse? If so, contact us today for legal advice and resources that will help the victim recover much deserved and needed compensation.
Additional Nursing Home Abuse Articles:
April 27, 2007
Illinois Nursing Home Sued by Resident’s Family
February 7, 2007,
Two Florida nurses have been jailed on multiple charges of abuse and neglect after failing to administer to nursing home residents their required medication. March 16, 2005,
"Largest private nursing home fined for failing to report abuse"
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