50+ Lifestyles

Your Advocacy

By Jessie Thomson
GolderCare Solutions

How to be the Best Advocate for your Loved One in the Nursing Home

There are not enough words for the emotions that come with placing a loved one in a nursing home facility. Amongst a myriad of other things you may think, now what? What should I be doing? What is my role in this scenario? As all people are different, so are the circumstances surrounding this choice and the roads leading to this time and place. No matter what has come to pass, nothing can negate or diminish the love and care you have provided, and will continue to provide, for this person. Caregiving comes in many different forms. An imperative role that we, as caregivers, provide is that of the “advocate.” In the nursing home facility, this will become your primary role as caregiver. As an advocate for your person in this setting, I urge you to be informed, be proactive, and be patient.

Be informed about the nursing facility and staff. Acquaint yourself with the layout of the building. Learn the different titles of staff to know whom to go to for specific things. The Director of Nursing (DON) and Assistant Director of Nursing (ADON) are in charge of the entire nursing staff. The Case Manager works for the skilled residents by communicating with their individual insurance companies and the facility’s therapy department to ensure that the services being provided are covered. The Care Plan Coordinator is in charge of every resident’s care plan, a document containing every aspect of the resident’s care. It is updated quarterly or upon change in
condition. The Floor Nurse is the nurse assigned to the area where your person resides. The Floor Nurse and the Certified Nurse’s Assistants (CNAs) are the ones doing “hands on care.” They can report to you on the resident’s mobility, mood, eating habits, hygiene, skin care, medications, treatments, and any other facets of the day. The Therapy Program Manager is in charge of the physical, occupational, and speech therapies in the facility. Your loved one’s therapists, as well as the Program Manager, are able to keep you abreast of their goals, progress, and future needs.

The Social Services Director assists with monitoring the resident’s memory and mood, implements interventions when needed, and assists with discharge planning. The Dietary Manager runs the kitchen and dining room, works with the dietician, and is an excellent resource for questions relating to dietary needs. The Housekeeping and Laundry Services help you find missing clothing and personal items. They also notice variations in the resident’s normal routine and are excellent resources. The Maintenance Person helps not only with the repairs of the building but also wheelchairs, walkers, and much more. Talk to them regarding what you can bring into the room to make it feel more like home. The Bookkeeper can answer questions regarding your loved one’s bill and explain how a “trust account” works for them to buy essentials or go to the beauty shop. The Administrator is involved in all of these departments and is a good resource for answers and action. Do not be afraid to sit down with this person and talk through your questions and concerns.

Be proactive by asking questions, understanding the medications and treatments, knowing the facility and the
resident’s schedule, and informing staff of your loved one’s interests, goals, needs, and personality. One of the most helpful and effective ways of advocating is to have good communication with the staff. The more they know about your loved one, the more individualized care they can give. An opportune time to be proactive is to attend the Care Conference or Care Plan Meeting. The facility will usually have one within the first two weeks of admission and then quarterly thereafter. This is a meeting wherein you and your loved one meet with staff members from each department and discuss the resident’s care plan, any changes that have occurred, and questions or concerns you may have. These meetings are a great way to stay connected and informed. Please note that you do not have to wait to talk to someone. You may request a meeting at any time.

Lastly, patience is a precious commodity, especially in relation to your loved one in this setting. There are many residents, all needing care and attention. Staffing can sometimes be difficult and even when they are working non-stop, there are periods of waiting. Equipment breaks down, items can get lost, and cooking for 100 people at a time ensures not everyone can always be satisfied. The long term care facility is home to these residents. The day to day workings are directed by, and sometimes at the mercy of, human circumstances. No one can take care of your loved one like you would. That is one of the reasons why this is such a hard transition. As an “advocate”, being patient does not mean being a doormat. It means picking your battles and practicing discernment regarding what will affect your loved ones dignity, well-being, and quality of life. Be informed, be proactive, and be patient. Your caregiving role as Advocate is so important to your loved one. They need you!

Jessie Thomson, BSW, is a Care Advocate for GolderCare Solutions. She has years of experience working in the long term care setting in various capacities. She uses this knowledge and experience to help advocate for seniors and those with disabilities. You can reach Jessie at GolderCare Solutions Unlimited, LLC (309) 764-2273.