Navigating the decision to place a loved one in a care facility is a heart-wrenching process. We understand how daunting this journey can be. The thought of entrusting someone else with the care of your aging parents can be overwhelming. At AmeriEstate Legal Plan, we’ve helped countless families through this transition, ensuring they have the necessary legal protections in place. To help ease your burden, here are four essential tips to consider when looking for a care facility for your aging parents.

 1. Visit the Facility at Random Hours

One of the most telling signs of how a facility truly operates is by observing it during unscheduled visits. While it’s common for families to tour facilities during set visiting hours, these times are often when the facility is at its best, with staff on their best behavior. To get a more accurate picture, try to visit at random hours—especially during times when the facility might be less prepared for visitors, such as before breakfast or after dinner.

When you visit, pay close attention to how the staff interacts with residents. Are they patient, kind, and attentive? Or do they seem rushed and disinterested? Is the staff readily available, or do you find yourself searching for someone to assist you? These observations can provide critical insights into the daily operations of the facility and the level of care your parents would receive.

If you see something concerning, discreetly take a photo or jot down notes. These details can be invaluable if you need to escalate the issue to the facility administration.

2. Engage with Other Families

Talking to other families who have loved ones in the facility can be incredibly insightful. They can share their experiences, both positive and negative, and provide you with a more rounded perspective on what to expect.

When engaging with other families, ask about their overall satisfaction with the facility. Do they feel their loved ones are well cared for? Have they had any concerns, and if so, how were those concerns addressed? These conversations can reveal a lot about the facility's culture and how responsive it is to residents’ needs.

3. Document Any Issues or Concerns

Even the best facilities can have issues from time to time, but how those issues are handled is crucial. If you notice something troubling, whether it’s a lack of cleanliness, a resident being treated poorly, or anything else that raises a red flag, document it.

Take photos, write down the time and date of the incident, and keep a detailed record of your observations. If you need to escalate the issue, having this documentation will strengthen your case and help ensure that your concerns are taken seriously.

If you believe the problem is severe or isn’t being addressed by the facility management, consider contacting your local long-term care ombudsman. This is an advocate who can investigate and help resolve issues related to care facilities.

 4. Ensure Legal Protections are in Place

A living trust allows your parents to outline their wishes for their assets, ensuring their estate is managed according to their desires. A healthcare directive gives them control over their medical care, specifying their preferences for treatment in case they’re unable to communicate them. A power of attorney for financial affairs designates someone to manage their financial matters if they become incapacitated.

These documents provide peace of mind, knowing that your parents’ wishes will be honored and their affairs will be managed according to their preferences

At AmeriEstate Legal Plan, we specialize in helping families create and update these crucial documents, ensuring their loved ones are protected. Schedule a free consultation with us today, and let us help you ensure your parents’ legal protections are in place.