A nursing center becomes necessary when family members are unable to meet the patient's care requirements or when continuous nursing care is deemed essential. It's advisable to initiate planning and discussions early to allow sufficient time for developing an appropriate care strategy.

To select an appropriate nursing center, it's recommended that you and your family members evaluate several facilities. Given that placement often occurs rapidly, it's beneficial to contact, visit, and tour as many nursing centers as feasible. During these visits, be sure to ask questions that address the aspects you believe will be most crucial for your loved one's care and comfort.

Your physician or a member of your healthcare team can often provide recommendations for suitable nursing centers. If you or a loved one is currently hospitalized, a social worker or case manager can also assist in the selection process, offering guidance based on your specific needs and circumstances.

The social worker at the hospital or nursing center will assist in determining the appropriate payment source, which may include Medicare, Medicaid, or private insurance. If Medicaid is needed to cover nursing home care costs, you will be directed to a Medicaid worker who can guide you through the application process.

Long-term care insurance is becoming more prevalent, but coverage can vary significantly between providers and policies. It is crucial to consult with your insurance carrier to understand the specific coverage your policy provides for ongoing, long-term care needs.

When residents who are privately paying have depleted most of their financial resources, they typically become eligible for Medicaid. In such cases, we will connect you with a Medicaid worker who can assist you with the application process to ensure continued coverage for nursing home care.

To facilitate a smoother transition for your loved one, consider personalizing their living space with familiar items from home, maintaining regular communication, and working closely with the nursing center staff to establish a care plan that addresses your loved one's specific needs and preferences.