Do you work in Long Term Care?

Have you been disheartened by your personal friends telling you how their parents are not having a positive experience?

Tonight was one of those nights for me……

Friends shared their parents experiences while in both assisted care and nursing home facilities.
They shared ……..
Interactions between staff and residents
Interactions between residents and residents
Interactions between themselves and staff

They shared with me what others friends in the same situation are experiencing.
What was the common thread……..  
Poor Customer Service.
Feeling they were bothering staff if they ask questions.
Feeling not being heard
Stressed that they chose this avenue for loved one.

This is a real concern for our industry! 
What as Industry leaders can we do to help families with these concerns??
These are some of the suggestions based on my past experience as a Director of Nurses that I shared with my friends tonight………

1. Discuss your concerns with the leadership of the facility. They may not know that this is occurring and can actively help you with your concerns.

2. Advocate for change: You can meet with the leadership team to discuss what your observations of care is. You can also meet with the ombudsman if you are not satisfied .

3. Prior to settling on placement of loved one review facilities on nursing home compare. Review ratings and prior complaints. Ask friends for recommendations of facilities they have had loved one in. Tour the facilities and share exactly what you are wishing for care.

4. Have regular visits with your loved ones. This enables you to be involved in the care provided. Also may foster better rapport with staff.

5. If you are not happy with the care provided for your loved one then seek other alternatives. It is always your right to seek alternative placement.

Please comment below as an industry leader any other suggestions that you would share with family members. 

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