Choosing an Oklahoma Nursing Home for a Loved One with Alzheimer’s
Acting as the primary care giver for a loved one who is suffering from Alzheimer’s is often frustrating, stressful, and overwhelming. This is why many Oklahoma families choose to relocate their loved one to a care facility that can provide round-the-clock supervision and care. It is important in such cases for families to choose a facility that is suited to their loved one’s needs.
The effects of Alzheimer’s may surface gradually or rapidly. Some individuals experience minor memory issues that gradually become more severe while others may enter advanced stages of Alzheimer’s shortly after diagnosis. Physical tasks such as dressing, bathing, and using the bathroom will become difficult for your loved one. Eventually, you will not be able to leave your loved one alone at night. It is important to begin a search for care services before you are unable to provide support and supervision on your own.
An adequately staffed Oklahoma nursing home will have enough trained care providers to help your loved one 24/7. You may select an assisted living facility if your loved one only needs help with some daily activities. However, your loved one will likely have to be moved to a nursing home eventually. Oklahoma nursing homes that regularly handle patients suffering from Alzheimer’s will have occupational or physical therapists available as well as nurses, licensed physicians, and other medical professionals.
When visiting an Oklahoma nursing home, inquire about the number of residents they have with Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. Ask if they have a designated area for residents with dementia. Inquire about their supervision policy, patient to staff ratio, and security methods in preventing patients from leaving the facility or getting lost. Ask how the care providers assess unexpressed pain, ensure that residents are given the proper amount of nutrients, and determine when to administer anti-psychotic medications. It is also important to check the facility’s record of violations through a web site such as Pro Publica.
If you suspect that your loved one is experiencing nursing home abuse or neglect, please do not hesitate to call the Maples Law Firm at (405) 705-5050. We have an excellent track record of protecting the rights of nursing home residents and their families.