Elder Care Georgia: Skilled Nursing Facility or Rehabilitations Facility – What To Look For When Your Loved One Needs Round The Clock Care
Elder Care Georgia… Skilled Nursing and Rehab Facilities – What to Look For, How to Choose
When it comes to elder care Georgia, making the decision to place a loved one into a home can be hard. No matter whether considering a skilled nursing facility or nursing home, it’s a tough choice. In fact, it is one of life’s most difficult decisions. So many questions must be fully explored and answered satisfactorily before making the move.
For the sake of clarity, I must point out that technically speaking, the two residences discussed aren’t the same. A rehabilitation facility is different than and serves different needs than a skilled nursing facility. However, the names are often used interchangeably.
Typically, a rehabilitation facility means that a patient’s stay is temporary. They stay until their condition is improved and the level of care provided isn’t needed anymore. This contrasts with a skilled nursing facility such as a nursing home. A nursing home is more often a permanent residence.
Whether your loved one’s needs are temporary or long-term, you need to investigate any facility considered thoroughly.
The best way to begin is to ask people you know and trust if they have recommendations. Then, with recommendations in hand, you can call and schedule a visit.
I find it helpful to start by making a list of things you’ll want to consider.
You might base these on your loved one’s needs, preferences, and personality. In addition, you’ll determine if the facility is close enough for you, friends, and family members to visit.
Also think about what services are needed.
Likewise, consider those that are necessary in the future. These might include assistance with basic daily activities to physical therapy, nursing care, and hospice care. If your loved one has or develops memory problems or dementia, you’ll want to know that the facility you are exploring offers these services.
Cost is an important area of concern for most people too.
Each facility is different. Thus, get detailed information about costs and which services are included. Find out if Medicare, Medicaid, or long-term care insurance will pay for any of the costs. The facility may have a financial office that can help you determine what assistance is available.
To assist with some of the topics above and further explanation of Medicaid planning for skilled nursing, I created earlier a pamphlet that may be very beneficial for you.
This information includes a skilled nursing home assessment. This assessment instructs what to look for when visiting and comparing skilled nursing facilities. This pamphlet is available if you request a copy be mailed to you. Just give our office a call at 404-370-0696.
If you or your loved one has an estate plan that you have reviewed in a while, you’ll want to refresh your memory and review it before you place them in a facility. If you would like us to help you with an estate plan review which includes long-term care planning, give my office a call at 404-370-0696.
For more information about assisted living and nursing homes, visit:
Looking to find an experienced estate lawyer in the Georgia area who is skilled in asset protection and estate plan preparation? Shannon Pawley is an attorney in Georgia with expertise in estate planning and asset protection. Shannon can provide assistance with creating an estate plan to include making a will and how to establish a trust properly. If you have questions about asset protection or questions about making an estate plan, reach out to Shannon and she will be glad to help answer all the estate planning questions you might have!
