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How to Choose the Best Skilled Nursing Care for Seniors
Caring for an aging loved one is always a heavy lift. However, it’s often even more stressful when that loved one has a medical condition that requires consistent care. If you need help managing a senior’s health concerns, don’t hesitate to look for skilled nursing care in Springfield, IL. The team at BrightStar Care is always here for you, providing a wide range of medical services. Here’s how to choose the best possible nursing care services for your loved one.
Take Stock of Your Loved One’s Needs
Before going much further, you should have a clear understanding of what your loved one requires. This initial assessment will guide you in identifying the services best suited to their needs. Consider the following:
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Medical Needs—Does your loved one require specific nursing or rehabilitation services, such as wound care, physical therapy, or specialized dementia support?
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Daily Assistance—How much help do they need with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, eating, or mobility?
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Social and Emotional Needs—Which activities will keep them mentally engaged and socially connected?
Do Some Online Research
Begin looking for skilled nursing care in Springfield, IL online. Research some of the top agencies and evaluate each one. You can get a feel for each provider’s reputation by looking at the following:
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Accreditation—Check if the agency is accredited by organizations like The Joint Commission or the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF). This often indicates a higher standard of care.
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Reviews—Look at online reviews to gain a deeper understanding of what to expect from the senior nursing care provider.
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References—Speak to current clients (if possible) and their families to hear about their experiences firsthand. An agency with a positive track record and glowing testimonials is typically a safe bet.
Speak With Each Caregiver in Person
A website can only tell you so much. Visiting each agency and speaking with a caregiver in person will provide you with invaluable insight into the care environment. Take note of the caregiver’s qualifications and how experienced they are with senior nursing care. Here are a few questions you can ask to dig a bit deeper into the caregiver’s approach to care:
- How long have you been a nurse? What conditions/services do you specialize in?
- How do you handle medical emergencies?
- Can you accommodate dietary restrictions?
- Do you have experience with my loved one’s specific condition (i.e., Alzheimer’s, heart disease)?
Review Contracts and Financial Details
Once you’ve narrowed down your options, request a detailed breakdown of costs and services included in the contract. Look out for transparency regarding fees and additional charges and clear insurance coverage details. If you’re unsure about any part of the agreement, don’t hesitate to ask questions or consult a third party if necessary.
Monitor Care in the Long Term
You’ve chosen nursing care services in Springfield—what next? Check in regularly with your loved one to ensure they’re comfortable and satisfied with the care they’re receiving. Be sure to communicate with the nurse as well to stay up to date with your loved one’s condition. As you continuously monitor your family member’s well-being, remember to account for their input and include them in major decisions.
Watch Out for Red Flags
Unfortunately, not all nursing care is created equal. Some facilities, agencies, and providers have a less-than-ideal reputation. As you evaluate different care options, watch for these potential red flags:- Significant staff turnover
- Unresponsive or dismissive management
- Negative reviews that remain unaddressed
- Unexplained, negative changes in your loved one’s behavior after beginning care
Get the Best Senior Nursing Care in Springfield
BrightStar Care takes the guesswork out of finding the best senior nursing care services! Our compassionate caregivers deliver exceptional care, and many of our staff members serve as skilled nurses for our clients. Look to us for home infusion therapy, blood draws, disease management, and much more. Reach out to us for more information.