Expert: Michalene Peticca - 6/24/2010

Question
Hello,  My mom has alzheimers and she's staying at a larger facility (70 pts) for a two week respite period.  I think the facility is too large.  How does one decide what facility is best for long term care?....

Answer
Hello Kyleen,

Thanks for writing.   70 patients at a nursing facility is a medium sized facility.  Many facilities have over 100 patients.

Generally the best facility is what your Mom feels comfortable at.  I have seen some exceptional "larger" facilities with very attentive staff and i've seen some small facilities that are like "ghost towns".

I would look for a lot of staff interaction with residents.  Familiarity of your mom by staff.  Cleanliness of your mom and the facility.  Opportunities for socialization and activities.  Opportunities for you as a family member to be involved.  And, most important, if your mom is calm and comfortable with her surroundings.

Two weeks is not a good "judge" of time but it certainly will get you started on knowing some of these points.

Good luck!

Michalene Peticca, MA