When you’re looking for an elder care facility for a loved one, it’s absolutely essential to conduct a thorough search. The very best nursing homes can enrich the lives and health of their residents—conversely, in the worst, nursing home abuse is a sad, but very real, possibility. To make sure your loved one gets the care they need and deserve, here are four factors to consider.

What to Look for in a Nursing Home

1. Accreditation

In Nebraska, the Department of Health and Human Services oversees nursing home regulations and certifies those facilities which provide at least a minimum standard of care. Accreditation is not a guarantee of high quality, but it is the first line of defense against nursing home abuse.

2. Reputation

An established elder care facility houses many residents, each of whom likely entertains several family and visitors. This means a large number of people have already seen what a home has to offer, and have likely posted these experiences online where you can read them.

3. Staff to Resident Ratios

To provide the best care, a nursing home needs enough staff to meet residents’ needs. This includes kitchen staff, janitorial personnel, and, of course, nurses and other medical professionals, depending on the services offered. The better the ratio of staff to residents, the more individual attention your loved one will receive.

4. ​​​​​​​Specialized Services

Speaking of the services offered, make sure they’re a good fit for your loved one’s needs. For example, a senior with serious medical conditions may need constant attention and the administration of medication by nurses and doctors, while one whose memory or mental state is deteriorating will benefit from specialized memory care.

By screening nursing homes for these factors, you can help ensure the best care for your parent or other loved one. If you do encounter nursing home abuse, Reed Law Offices in Omaha, NE is the area’s most trusted elder abuse attorney. Their experience and passion will help you ensure the safety of your loved one. To discuss your nursing home abuse case, call (402) 933-0588 or reach out online.