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 A Guide for Families: Making the Transition to Nursing Facility Life It's a good idea to get a head start on paperwork and financial details. Before admission day arrives, fill out the forms to the best of your ability, making note of any questions you and the resident may have. Provide a complete medical and personal history for the resident. Check on Medicare and Medicaid eligibility requirements. Finances are often the most confusing and misunderstood part of the entire admission process. Be sure you, the resident and the appropriate staff member openly discuss all costs. Know what's included and what's extra. Know the requirements and how long Medicare, Medicaid and insurance coverage lasts and talk about what happens next. Review your understanding of payment, money management and other details. Don't hesitate to ask questions.
Personal BelongingsThink about personal belongings. Items from home are very important to someone moving away from familiar surroundings. A small piece of furniture, pictures, books, a radio or TV, a lamp, a clock – these familiar items may help eliminate a feeling of loneliness and displacement. Discuss with staff what's appropriate to bring. If some of the personal belongings have monetary value, make arrangements with the staff for safe storage and use. Talk about clothing needs and laundry facilities. Be sure the resident has enough of what is needed, and that the clothes are comfortable and easy to manage. Label items with the resident's name.
Talk About EverythingMany issues may be awkward or embarrassing; some are sensitive and emotional. Instead of avoiding uncomfortable topics, talk about them openly, with dignity and patience. These uncomfortable subjects are probably very much on the resident's mind. Some of the most common questions asked by new residents are:
What are they like? Where are they from?
What if we don't get along? How will our differences be accommodated?
What will the staff do for me? What will I be able or have to do for myself? Can I take my own medicine?
What if I don't like it? Can I have something special fixed for me? If I'm hungry at night, do I have to wait until morning? Can my family join me at some of my meals?
How often will they visit? Can I leave to visit friends and relatives? What about mail? What about going out of the facility?
To whom should I speak if I have a problem? Are they qualified? Do they know about me? What should I tell them? Can I trust them? Should I tip anyone on the staff?
What happens if money runs out? Do I have insurance? Will I have spending money? How much money should I keep with me? How can I ensure that my money is safe? What if I need money in a hurry? How much privacy will I have? |
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