Even in a best possible scenario, there are numerous issues you will need to continually monitor to ensure your loved one is getting the best possible care. Here are some key topics to get you started.

The most important consideration when choosing a facility is to determine if they can provide the level of care your family member will require.

Placing a loved one in a facility is a difficult and often traumatic experience. Once a decision has been made, the work truly begins.

Get involved—and stay involved—if you want to avoid some of the serious consequences that can occur at a nursing home.

On occasion, you may need to enlist the services of an outside provider that specializes in a particular area.

It is imperative that the doctor you choose is able to spend the appropriate amount of time with you to discuss therapy, treatments, surgeries, and any medications they will be prescribing.

Although selecting the doctor is extremely important—especially regarding potential surgical requirements and medications —the Nurse Practitioner’s role is equally influential.

Nursing home Associates/Resident Care Assistants play a very important role in the care of your family member because of their intimate daily interaction. They have the ability to enhance their lives or make them unpleasant and stressful.

Thieves come in all shapes and sizes. My advice: be safe, not sorry.

The eventuality of death is certain. Assisted living and nursing homes provide a stepping stone to that end.