Factors to Consider When Choosing a Florida Nursing Home

We count on nursing homes and assisted living facilities to take care of our elderly or disabled loved ones, which is why abuse and neglect in these settings can be so disturbing. Unfortunately, various forms of misconduct are more widespread than you’d expect. Statistics from the National Center on Elder Abuse reveal that anywhere between 1-2 million Americans aged 65 or older have suffered mistreatment or injuries by caregivers. These are just estimates due to issues with reporting, since only 1 in 14 incidents come to the attention of authorities. 

With these figures in mind, you can see how choosing the right facilities is critical to ensure the safety and well-being for a loved one. These vulnerable individuals often cannot make the decision alone, which is why there are far too many instances of nursing home abuse and neglect in Florida. Some tips may help you do your homework when finding the right nursing home. 

Know the Different Types of Facilities: First, it’s important to understand how assisted living centers are distinguishable by the level of care required. 

Independent Living Apartments: These centers are intended for residents who do not require specialized medical care, but may need some assistance with personal tasks. Staff is charged with supervision, housekeeping, and meals. Many of these facilities focus on social activities and engagement.

Assisted Living Facilities: This type of facility may be suitable for someone who needs additional support, but doesn’t need around-the-clock monitoring. Many centers provide different levels of care under one roof, where a resident could start with independent living. Then, the person could transition to higher levels of care, in appropriate living arrangements, over time. 

Skilled Nursing Homes: Here, a resident would receive comprehensive services, including 24/7 assistance with housekeeping, basic medical care, personal tasks, and hygiene. Skilled nursing facilities are staffed by certified medical providers who are trained to address serious illnesses and medical conditions. 

Factors to Consider in Choosing a Facility: Once you’ve determined the proper type of facility according to the level of care, additional considerations include:

• Ratio of Non-medical Staff to Residents: Understaffing is a serious problem throughout the US, including Florida. Many facilities try to get by with fewer employees, which can lead to increased potential for neglect.
• Emergency and Urgent Care Personnel: Typically, only skilled nursing homes staff medical professionals at all times. However, you should determine whether other practitioners are readily available for emergencies.
• Costs: Your budget may not go as far as you think, so you may need to consider applying such financial resources as the resident’s insurance, real estate, or personal assets.
• Past complaints that may have been lodged against the facility and its employees.
  

Contact a Florida Nursing Home Abuse Attorney with Concerns 

If you believe a loved one has sustained nursing home abuse or is a victim of neglect, please contact the Florida nursing home abuse attorneys at Freidin Brown, P.A. to set up a free case evaluation. Our first task will be helping you to get this person safe, but we can also explain your rights regarding misconduct. You may be able to recover medical expenses, pain and suffering, and other monetary damages on behalf of your loved one.