I am taking a tour of a Personal Care Home that my mom may move into next week if everything goes well. It is my first tour of a place for her, I know the basic questions but is there anything that maybe you didn't ask but wish you did when you were researching places?
My mom is 67 and has MS. She is now unable to stand and transfer herself so she now needs assistance with getting washed, dressed and moved from her scooter to bed or toilet.
This personal care home is a small place, 5 bedroom, 3 baths. I feel the small environment will be more comfortable for her, but I am nervous at the same time because since the staff is low, if there is only one person on and they don't do their work, there is no one else to fall upon.
5 : 20+ ratio of caregivers to residents. :/
Yes you need to find a place where they are able to deal with the physicality of her specific needs.
I think it all depends on your loved one's needs, and level of dementia if any, also ability to walk of course.If so, I would ask if her room can be closer to the nursing station, rather than far away.
With my Mom she hates everything: the food, her room, the people.
I her defence the food isn't great.Her room is fine, but not home.The people have severe dementia.They wander and steal her things.She doesn't understand why she can't talk to them and make them understand that they need to stay out of her room.
Mom has short term memory loss due to a stroke but it quite lucid and doesn't get why she can't go home.
It really depends on your mom's mind-set, health, and physical capabilities as to the questions you need to ask.
Also when does a doctor visit?
What about dental and vision?
Do they believe in restraining individuals?
What is their belief if Mom refuses meds?
Is there a dietician, if Mom won't eat?
Are you able to bring in extra care givers if you can't be present?
Yes...many many questions... *hugs* B
Most of all, READ THE FINE PRINT. Do not sign up for a place before understanding EXACTLY what the costs are--are they going to increase (yes) and how often (monthly? yearly?). Is it a month-to-month lease? When she dies, do they pro-rate for a partial month (some places charge the whole month plus the next month). Find out what services are, and are NOT included.
Do not check your mom into a place assuming your duties are over.....they will change but to different duties.
Instead of worrying about her leaving her front door unlocked, you will be worrying about the background checks of their 6th new employee this year.
You will STILL be responsible for taking mom to all her doctor's appointments, as well as scheduling them.
There is NO place that will do everything for your parent. You will still need to be VERY active in her life. A good facility will respect that your role is important and seek your help, instead of trying to tell you what you ought to be doing (i.e. paying more & more all the time).
The suggestions to become friendly with staff and other residents is very helpful. I bake often and will bring baked goods to share with everyone. I have two (soon to be three) young children so as long as the people like kids that always breaks the ice with strangers.
Good luck!