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Let’s be honest — no one dreams of picking out a nursing home. But when the time comes, whether for yourself or someone you love, making the right choice can mean the difference between peace of mind and panic mode. The good news? With a little planning (and maybe a friendly estate planning attorney in your corner), you can make the process far less stressful — and even empowering.
1. Start Early — Like, Now
The best time to look into nursing home options is before you actually need one. When you’re not in crisis mode, you can tour facilities, ask questions, and weigh your options without feeling rushed. Waiting until a hospital discharge with only 48 hours to find a bed? That’s like apartment hunting with your eyes closed — in the rain.
2. Make a “Must-Have” List
Not all nursing homes are created equal, and what works for one person might not work for another. Start by thinking about what’s truly important. Ask yourself these questions:
- What level of care is needed? (Assisted living, memory care, full skilled nursing?)
- Is the facility close to family and friends who’ll visit often?
- Are there nearby hospitals and specialists in case of medical needs?
- What’s the social vibe like — do they offer activities and events?
- Are religious or cultural needs taken into account?
- What’s the staff-to-resident ratio? And do the staff actually stick around?
Proximity really matters — especially for maintaining relationships, making regular visits easier, and staying connected to the local medical community. Being closer to familiar people and places can make a huge difference in someone’s emotional and physical well-being.
You can also use tools like Medicare’s Nursing Home Compare (Medicare’s Nursing Home Compare) to check out ratings, inspection reports, and staffing details.
3. Go See It for Yourself (and Maybe Pop in Unannounced)
Those glossy brochures? Lovely. But a real-life visit — especially a surprise one — tells you much more. Is it clean? How does it smell? Do the residents seem happy and well cared for? How do staff interact with them? Trust your gut, your nose, and your instincts.
4. Understand the Cost — and How You’ll Cover It
Sticker shock is real. The median cost of a semi-private room in a nursing home is now over $11,000 per month. Here’s how most people handle the cost:
Long-Term Care Insurance: If you have it, now’s the time to dust off that policy. Just make sure it covers the type of care you’re considering — and note any waiting periods before benefits kick in.
Medicaid: Yes, Medicaid covers nursing home care — but it’s income- and asset-based. The rules are tricky, and mistakes (like giving away assets too late) can delay eligibility. Early planning helps you protect assets and avoid headaches.
Private Pay: Without insurance or Medicaid, it’s out-of-pocket. That can drain savings fast. It’s smart to understand what you’re agreeing to — and what other resources may be available.
5. Talk to an Estate Planning Attorney (Hi, That’s Us!)
This isn’t just a financial decision — it’s a legal one, too. We can help you navigate Medicaid eligibility and protect your assets, legally. We will also review your long-term care policy, prepare or update your powers of attorney and healthcare directives, read the fine print on those confusing admissions agreements, and set up trusts or other planning tools to minimize risk.
We’re not here to sell you anything — just to make sure your legal ducks are in a row and your choices are respected.
6. Watch for Red Flags 🚩
Some things should raise your eyebrows — and possibly your blood pressure:
🚩Facilities that demand a family member personally guarantee payment
🚩Vague or missing cost breakdowns
🚩A history of health and safety violations (check those inspection reports!)
🚩High staff turnover or negative online reviews from families
Choosing the right nursing home isn’t easy — but it can be
Choosing the right nursing home isn’t easy — but it can be manageable, and even empowering, when you’re prepared. A little early planning, some solid research, and the right support can help you make a decision that brings peace of mind to the whole family. Click below to schedule a meeting with a qualified Rhode Island estate planning attorney.
