Today’s nursing homes are nothing like they used to be in the past. Over the last two decades, the policies and procedures, personnel, training, amenities and quality of care have improved significantly. However, because there are still common misconceptions, people are often fearful of the transition to a care facility unnecessarily. In fact, even the term “nursing home” is no longer often used; they are now popularly referred to as “skilled nursing communities” or “long-term care communities.” But in this article, we bring you some of the most common myths that you should get rid of when you think about sending your loved ones to elderly care homes. Happy discovery!
Myth #1 – There Is No Privacy in Senior Care Facilities
Grandparent homes offer their residents private space and the ability to own personal property. Almost all grandparent homes allow residents to choose whether they want to share their living space with another grandparent or if they prefer to live alone. The only people who can enter the seniors’ room at any time are the staff on duty.
Myth #2 – All nursing homes are the same
Each organization or institution that cares for grandparents not only has a unique approach to its business but also provides different services. All grandparent homes have individual rules, general internal procedures, and value priorities that need to be clarified for each potential resident and the parents caring for them.
Myth #3 – Moving to a nursing home is an irreversible process
Moving to a senior care facility can be both long-term and short-term. An elders’ home is not the last stage of life. Seniors often live in elderly care facilities for a short period of time when their loved ones simply cannot provide the necessary living conditions and care (working abroad, family problems, health issues, etc.).
Myth #4 – Elderly Care Homes Are Like Hospitals
The only thing retirement homes have in common with health care facilities is the constant availability of quality medical care. The nursing home creates a sense of community and community among its residents and a cozy environment that is far from reminiscent of a temporary hospital visit.
Myth #5 – Only the very frail elderly are admitted to nursing homes
While nursing homes offer ongoing health care and skilled medical care, this does not mean that they are necessary for all residents. Of course, there are a number of respectable-aged people in senior care facilities whose well-being requires the constant care of medical professionals, but these seniors are certainly not the absolute majority.
Myth #6 – Retirement homes restrict residents’ freedoms
The only restrictions nursing homes may impose are in the name of safety for the seniors themselves or other residents, but residents retain all their personal and civil rights. Many nursing home residents suffer from a variety of health conditions and may not be able to properly assess the current situation and environment. In this case, the nursing home may restrict certain areas of the resident’s activity or intensify care to ensure the safety of the senior and those around them.
Myth #7 – Private Elderly Care Homes Are an Unaffordable Luxury
While rates for services provided by private care facilities may indeed be slightly higher, these differences are often not very significant. However, it should be noted that private nursing homes often offer a greater choice of daily care and medical options, as well as a variety of additional services, depending on the individual needs or preferences of the senior.
And there you have it! If you had any doubts about finding a retirement home for a loved one because of the above misconceptions you’ve heard before, you can now rest assured: they’re not true.
Have you heard any other myths? Share them with us in the comments below!