As people age, they often require specialized care and support that nursing homes can provide. Nursing homes play a critical role in society by providing comprehensive care for individuals who can no longer live independently.
They cater to residents with unique needs and help ensure they receive the attention and services required to maintain a high quality of life. But before you enroll a loved one into a care facility, it is crucial to understand a resident’s basic needs in a nursing home.
Safety and security
One of the most fundamental needs of nursing home residents is safety and security. These individuals often have mobility limitations and may suffer from health conditions that make them more vulnerable to accidents. Therefore, nursing homes should be equipped with safety measures and trained staff to help ensure the well-being of residents.
Nutrition and hydration
Proper nutrition and hydration are essential for residents’ health. Nursing homes should have dieticians who plan well-balanced meals to meet the dietary requirements of each resident. Regular meal schedules and hydration plans should be established to help ensure no one is at risk of malnutrition or dehydration.
Medication management
Many nursing home residents rely on multiple medications to manage their health conditions. As such, nursing homes should have a robust system for medication management that can ensure residents receive the right medicines at the right times. This is crucial for maintaining their overall health.
Mobility assistance
As already mentioned, residents have limited mobility; therefore, they need assistance with activities such as bathing, dressing and moving around. Nursing home staff should be trained to provide this support, allowing residents to maintain their personal hygiene and freedom of movement.
Understanding a resident’s basic needs in a nursing home can help families of elderly citizens pursue legal action for nursing home neglect if those needs are not met.