The decision of whether or not to move to a nursing home is a big one. It is likely your clients have lots of questions if they are considering this life change. As their agent, you are in a good position to help answer their questions.
Read on to learn more about common nursing home questions your clients may have, then contact us at American Senior Benefits for more information.
Common Nursing Home Questions and Answers
Here are some common nursing home questions and answers your clients may ask you:
Is a nursing home safe?
This is an important question, and you can reassure your clients that nursing homes are safe. Sometimes we hear or see negative depictions on TV, but the reality is a far cry from Hollywood. Nursing homes prioritize safety and comfort, so residents can be assured of their safety. Your clients should ask to see the safety policies and procedures of any nursing home they are considering.
How does a nursing home determine the level of care a resident needs?
Nursing homes will perform an intake evaluation of any potential resident to determine the level of care needed. This could include reviewing medical records, talking with the resident and their family, and doing an evaluation in person with the resident. Chronic medical conditions, medications, and the resident’s ability to perform tasks of daily living independently will all factor into the level of care necessary.
Does Medicare cover the cost of a nursing home?
Original Medicare does not usually cover the cost of a nursing home. If a client has a Medicare Advantage plan, it may have some coverage for a nursing home. Medicare may also provide some coverage for the cost of prescription drugs and outpatient doctor visits while a person resides in a nursing home. Most nursing homes accept Medicaid, and in combination with Medicare Part D coverage for prescriptions, many clients would have coverage for the cost of nursing home care.
Can a married couple live together in a nursing home?
Often the answer is yes! Many nursing homes have rooms or suites designed to accommodate partners who are used to living together. It is a significant life change to move to a nursing home and separating a couple who have spent their lives together would be an added stress. Many nursing homes allow partners to stay together and support each other while living in the nursing home. As their agent, you could also help your clients organize a tour of the nursing home so they can feel comfortable with the design.
How do nursing homes handle visits from family and friends?
Visits from family and friends are an important lifeline and connection to the outside world for many nursing home residents. Nursing homes understand this and often have few restrictions on family visits. There may be restrictions on the hours or number of visitors allowed at one time, and the pandemic changed some rules regarding visits. But having a strong connection with people is a positive thing for nursing home residents, so make sure your clients are comfortable with the visitor policy.
Can a resident bring their own furniture or personal belongings to the nursing home?
Many nursing homes encourage their residents to decorate their spaces with their personal belongings. Photos, artwork, blankets, books, and even small pieces of furniture may be allowed. Make sure to ask this question of any facility your clients consider. Having small pieces of their personal life surrounding them can make a resident feel more at home.
How Do I Learn More?
To learn more about answering common nursing home questions your clients have, contact us at American Senior Benefits. Our affiliated experts will be happy to answer any questions you have.
