The world is growing up fast and most counties don’t have the resources to accommodate the growing population of elderly residents, according to a recent study from the United Nations and an elder rights group. By the year 2050, for the first time in history, seniors over the age of 60 will outnumber children under the age of 15, according to NBC NEWS.
In this study, the U.S. ranked in the eighth spot. We rank in at 36 for income security. The study also revealed that more than 82 percent of people over 65 are covered by a pension, but there are also more than 23 percent who are over 60 that live in relative poverty.
The truth of the matter is that our elderly loved ones need our help. As they get older, they may not be able to care for themselves. That’s why it’s our responsibility and loving friends and family members to make sure that they get the treatment and care that they deserve. Our nursing home neglect attorneys are here with some important tips for you to use when selecting a nursing home for your elderly loved one.
There are nursing homes in the state of New York that provide continuous skilled nursing and supportive services to residents. Currently, New York has more than 600 licensed nursing homes, and most strive to provide quality care. However, there are times when residents or family members have concerns about the quality of care in a nursing home.
When Selecting a Nursing Home:
-Start with the facts. Each year, Medicaid Services and Centers for Medicare collect information on more than 15,000 homes throughout the nation. With this information, you can look at a home’s staffing, complaints, quality and other important information.
-Visit. Visit. Visit. No only go you want to make scheduled trips to nursing homes you’re considering, but you want to make unannounced visits, too. You want to see how the home is running when staff is not prepared. Visit during different times of the day and during different days of the week. While touring the facility, look for safety equipment such as handrails in hallways and restrooms, as well as for intercom systems which residents can use to call for help when necessary. The intercom system should be accessible via a cord that is long enough to reach in the event of a fall.
-Make sure you ask the right questions. Ask about the staff turnover rate. If it’s less than 30 percent, that’s a good sign. Make sure you ask about the routine and schedule. Ask about the meals. Ask for backing information for all of these answers. The proof is in the pudding. Is the nursing home close to a hospital, family, and friends, and near transportation, shopping and parks?
-Call Your Ombudsman. Each state has a federally funded long-term care ombudsman who is an advocate for nursing home patients. This person can help you with any other information you might need.
The Law Offices of Nicholas Rose, PLLC offers free consultations. Call 1-877-313-7673.
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Hospital Infections a Leading Cause of Death in New York, New York Injury Lawyer Blog, September 30, 2013
Bigger Babies, Bigger Medical Risks for Mother and Child, New York Injury Lawyer Blog, August 30, 2013
