 | Shelly Lunsford is the facility director at The Homestead Assisted Living Residence in Wichita. She lives in Medicine Lodge and received her nursing degree from Pratt Community College. She spent five years working at Wesley Medical Center in the cardiac field prior to taking a leap of faith and jumping into the long term care of assisted living. From the moment she entered the doors at The Homestead, Shelly knew that it was the place for her. From a nursing point of view, this type of position allows her to utilize all her nursing skills, assessing not only the physical, but the mental, emotional and spiritual needs as well. The greatest reward for Shelly is to feel the love and compassion generated between residents and staff. It truly is a home-like atmosphere filled with family. Shelly can be reached at (316) 729-2400 or you may visit the facility at 12221 W. Maple, in Wichita. |
Senior Living
2007-07-01 16:13:00
Differences between nursing facilites
I have been looking for placement for my aging mother. What are the differences between assisted, independent and skilled nursing facilities and what are some of the things I need to look for in finding the best placement for her?
Answer: Assisted Living facilities have rapidly developed through the years as a result of the health care needs in our community and the demand for quality senior living that falls between independent living and nursing homes. Assisted Living communities exist to bridge the gap between seniors that can live independently, those who require minimal help, and nursing homes, those who require a higher level of assistance and medical care on a continuous basis.
Independent living is for active older adults who desire a maintenance-free lifestyle and who are capable of residing alone. Usually, they are looking to free themselves of the responsibilities of home ownership and maintenance and are capable of performing everyday tasks independently. They recognize their own health, medical, financial, and legal needs.
Assisted living is a long term care alternative for seniors who need more assistance than is available in an independent facility, but who do not require the medical and nursing care provided in a skilled nursing facility.
Assisted living offers residents all the benefits of independent living with the additional services to assist with the activities of daily living (ADLs). Assisted living provides assistance on an “as-needed” basis.
Assisted living residents may require help with ADLs such as dressing, bathing, help with transfer, medication assistance, and nutrition. Assisted living includes three restaurant-style meals daily, weekly housekeeping services, medication management, a full array of daily activities, and all utilities except for cable and telephone.
Assisted Living communities are closely involved in the health needs of their residents. They often have a person designated to oversee this called a ‘Resident Care Coordinator’. They coordinate the monitoring of health related issues involving medication, diet, personal hygiene, socialization and mental acuity to assist the senior and their family as they interact with health care professionals. If a decline is noted in a specific area, family and health care professionals are consulted by the Resident Care Coordinator to resolve issues. Often, because of their experience, unexpected emergency health issues are avoided, as signs of a decline are recognized and acted upon early.
Residents can live at an assisted living for many years, even as their health declines considerably. Many offer hospice care and end of life assistance. There are many ways to choose an assisted living residence for your mother. Assisted living residences are regulated by the State and are surveyed yearly. The latest survey report is always available for public viewing. In addition, you should always tour the residence you are thinking of placing your loved one in and talk to many of the residents that live there. Ask questions. Go to the local fire department and ask them their opinion of the assisted living residence. Ask to have a meal at the assisted living to see what the food is like. Make a surprise visit to the residence.
Ask about staff to resident ratio. Watch how the staff and residents interact while you are visiting. After a thorough investigation, I am sure you will find a great home for your mother.
