The Chicago nursing home neglect lawyers and Illinois elder abuse attorneys at Abels & Annes encourage families to become proactive in choosing an Illinois nursing home or assisted living facility. Advanced research can help ensure a loved one is placed in an environment capable of providing the proper care.
Illinois operates one of the country’s most embattled nursing home systems. Our Illinois Nursing Home Abuse Lawyer Blog continues to report problems with convicted felons and unsafe conditions at homes throughout the Chicago area.
Those considering an Illinois nursing home should review a home’s record of violations through the Illinois Department of Public Health.
The average cost for a nursing home stay is about $74,000 a year, while the cost for an assisted living facility is $34,000. The number of assisted living facilities has exploded in recent years. About 38,000 assisted living facilities serve an estimated 975,000 residents.
A number of considerations can help determine whether a nursing facility or assisted-living facility is right for you and your loved one.
U.S. News & World Report recently published 9 things to consider when selecting a nursing home or assisted living facility.
1) Quality of Life: Choosing a home near a resident’s social network, including family and friends, can have a positive impact on their quality of life and ensure visitors can help ensure a resident’s welfare.
2) Current and Future Needs: Choosing an environment capable of handling current and future health issues can help with continuity of care. If a loved one has dementia or other progressive illness, will the home be able to handle their future needs?
3) Financial Stability: Choosing a home with a solid track record is important. A home with financial problems can impact quality of care.
4) Proper Licensing: Check with the agency that licenses homes to ensure that the home you are considering has the proper licenses and no serious history of violations.
5) Get Referrals: Seek input from the family members of other residents.
6) Ask about a Waiting List: Many good homes have a waiting list. Don’t assume the home will have room when you need it. Conversely, there may be a reason why a home has no wait to admit residents. Do your homework.
7) Make Repeat Visits: Visit a home several times at different times before making a final selection.
8) Talk to Residents: During your visits, ask residents about their experiences. Be wary of homes that do not encourage you to speak with residents.
9) Consult a lawyer about a home’s contract: A contract for a nursing home or assisted-living facility is a complex document best discussed with an experienced attorney.
If you suspect a case of nursing home neglect or abuse involving a Chicago nursing home or assisted-living facility, contact Abels & Annes for a free and confidential appointment to discuss your rights. Call (866) 99-ABELS. There is no fee unless you win.
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