Long-Term Care: What to Look For — by BScN Rahim Charania
Whether you are a senior in search of long-term care in Ontario, or a family member searching for assistance with an elderly relative, you have options. Long-term care is just one of many solutions on offer for seniors who require assistance.
Homes that offer long-term care will provide living space with 24-hour nursing on-site as well as personal care and assistance with daily needs. These homes have many names, from a nursing home to age home to long term care. When searching for a long-term care facility, it is important to know what to look for.
You want yourself or a loved one to be cared for properly and have access to the assistance you need. Below are a few key points to consider when it comes to long-term care.
The Community
The first area that one can consider is the community. Are there options for activity on site or nearby, such as shopping, a library or park? What will you be able to do at the facility or what will your loved one be able to take part in? Is public transit available for traveling to nearby locations? Is there a hospital nearby in case of emergency? These are questions you should ask long-term care facilities in order to see what is available.
Services Offered
A second category to consider is services offered. What will the senior be provided? Are meals included? If so, how many meals are offered per day? How about snacks and beverages? What will be provided to your loved one? Ask about housekeeping and laundry. This is another important aspect that should be considered. You want the room of your loved one to be cleaned on a regular basis to ensure a neat and tidy environment. Transportation is another option to consider. Does the facility offer transportation for your loved one if they need assistance? How about traveling to doctor’s offices or other needed appointments? Is there a medical director who visits the home regularly?
In this same category should be medical and support services. You want to find out exactly what is provided in this area. How will your loved one be cared for? With a long-term care facility, you want to be sure that your loved one will receive quality care including having a physician on call, vital monitoring, medication administration. What is the staffing ratio for residents to caregivers? Find out every aspect of care provided so you can ensure that your loved one will be cared for correctly.
By asking questions and visiting several long-term care facilities, you will have enough information to make an informed decision on the care needs of your loved one. Take your time so you can find the right facility that suits the needs of your family member.
The Local Health Integration Network (LHIN) community division will allow you to choose 5 nursing homes once you or your loved one qualify for a Long Term Care home. You may not necessarily receive your first choice and may have to settle for the 5th choice. If you decline the bed offerm you may have to start the wait process again. Currently, every LTC home has a waiting list that can range from months to years.
Regulations
All Long Term Care Homes are regulated by the Ministry of Health and Long Term Care. A history of citations and violations can be found on the Ministry website.
