People have varied feelings about nursing homes. Part of how they feel about them depends on their age. Part depends on what nursing homes they’ve experienced in person or through the media. Part of it depends on whether or not they can picture themselves in a nursing home or if they would rather age in place for as long as possible. But no matter how people feel about them, there are nursing homes out there where the residents are well cared for and enjoying their lives.
When a decision is made by an individual, or their family, to move into a nursing home, several positive changes can take place. These changes include allowing a former family caregiver to go from being a caretaker back to being a family member. Or giving the elder the ability to interact with their peers. Or the family being able to feel secure in the knowledge that the elder’s complex medical needs will be handled by professionals.
Additionally, there are different types of nursing homes available, depending on what level of care an individual needs. Even homes that provide a lot of skilled nursing can still also provide social activities.
One thing that is important to remember is that a nursing home decision should ideally be made before a crisis creates an immediate need for a move into such a facility. But even if a family is in the middle of a care crisis, many nursing homes are very accommodating and flexible.
What experiences have you had with nursing homes? We’d love to hear some experiences our readers have had!