5 Nursing Home Myths
March 30, 2012 Category: Assisted Living Facility, Nursing Homes, Residential Care, Retirement Communities No Comments 
Hello There! If you are new here, you might want to subscribe to our daily blog alerts on everything LivingSenior.
There are many misconceptions about nursing homes that are often unjustified. However, some myths that surround these establishments that are portrayed as terribly institutionalized are unfortunately true. Since many people are unaware of the rules in nursing homes and laws that protect residents, it’s easy for such a facility to take advantage of an individual and/or their family.
Myth # 1 – Medicaid does not pay for a service you want or need
Truth – Medicaid patients are entitled to the exact same care as other ersidents.
Myth #2 – Restraints are a mandated procedure to prevent residents from wandering off
Truth – Restraints should never be used as a method of convenience or discipline.
Myth #3 – Visiting hours are to be strictly honored by friends and family
Truth – Family members are permitted to visit any time of the day or night.
Myth #4 – A resident can be evicted due to a difficult personality or conflict with a staff member.
Truth – This one is a biggie. You cannot be evicted for being a hell raiser. In fact, there are only a handful of reasons as to why someone can be evicted: failure to pay, no longer having a need for nursing home care, endangering another’s safety or health, or because the nursing facility is going out of business.
Myth #5 – You must pay extra charges if the nursing home requires it.
Truth – Nursing homes are generally not allowed to add extra charges for any service or treatment unless it was discussed and agreed upon at the time of original admission.
These are only a few of the myths that plague the nursing home community, and even more unfortunately, some nursing homes use it to their advantage If you feel your facility is being dishonest with you, or if something just seems “off” about the staff and structure, then visit The Commonwealth Fund to review your rights and see what your options are.
If you are simply in the process of looking for a home for yourself or a loved one, keep the above things in mind. Be a smart “shopper”, and if something seems suspicious or unfair, then don’t be afraid to be a whistle blower.
bought to you by Senior Living.
