Elder Abuse In Nursing Homes: How to Spot It and What To Do

The term “elder abuse” can refer to several forms of abuse and occurs in homes, relatives’ homes and even in nursing homes of elderly adults. As men and women age and become dependent on others’ care, there are unscrupulous caregivers out there who take advantage of the situation. In the United States, more than half a million reports of abuse against the elderly reach authorities every year, meaning that several thousand cases go unreported.

Here are some of the different forms of elder abuse:

1. Physical Abuse: Non-accidental use of force against an elderly person that results in physical pain, injury or impairment. This not only refers to physical assaults but also the inappropriate use of drugs, restraints, or confinement.
2. Emotional Abuse: The way people speak to or treat elderly people in ways that cause emotional pain or distress. Verbal forms include intimidation through yelling, humiliation and habitual blaming. Nonverbal forms include ignoring the elderly person, isolation and terrorizing.
3. Sexual Abuse: Contact without the elder’s consent. Such contact can involve physical sex acts, but also includes showing an elderly person pornographic material, forcing the person to watch sex acts or forcing the elder to undress.
4. Neglect: Refers to the failure to fulfill a caretaking obligation and constitutes more than half of all reported cases of elder abuse. It can be intentional or unintentional.
5. Financial Exploitation: The unauthorized use of an elderly person’s funds or property. Examples include misuse of an elder’s personal checks, credit cards or accounts, stolen cash, forging of the elder’s signature and identity theft.
6. Healthcare Fraud and Abuse: Carried out by unethical doctors, nurses, hospital personnel, and other professional care providers. Examples include not providing healthcare but charging for it, overcharging or double-billing, getting kickbacks for referrals to other providers, overmedicating and Medicaid fraud.

In short, there are several forms of elder abuse, all of which can be very serious concerns in any elderly living scenario. Knowing the different forms of elder abuse is the first step. There are several ways to recognize if your loved ones are suffering if you are unsure. Then, alerting the right people is the crucial part.

Find Elder Abuse Resources to help further guide you and check out this Infograph to learn more.

How To Volunteer in a Nursing Home

The term "nursing home" doesn't always evoke the most positive or exciting feelings at first. Full-time senior care facilities are termed nursing homes due to the fact that the people who live in them are provided with a nurse's care. Interestingly enough, nurses aren't the only caregivers. Aside from the obvious medical care, nursing homes rely on volunteers to interact with their residents. Activities run by volunteers serve as an integral part in helping residents feel at home and cared for.

So, what are the basic requirements, duties and benefits of working as a nursing home volunteer? Here are some interesting things to consider:

Requirements

• The specific requirements can vary within even a single city, so make sure you know the ins and outs of what's needed at your specific nursing home before beginning to volunteer.
• You should love being around older people, the main purpose of volunteers is to engage the residents, and that's best done when you're enjoying yourself!
• Knowledge of how to play card games is important, like bridge or Canasta. These are activities that take much more mental energy than a physical one, which is usually better.
• Some positions may have age stipulations, a common age requirement for younger volunteers is 15.
• Knowing how to steer a wheelchair is also a good skill to have when volunteering in nursing homes.
• Some nursing homes may require more training, especially when working with hospice patients, being mentally ready for an emergency or worse is also a good idea. This type of volunteering can be emotionally draining as well.

Duties

• Help run games, such as calling out numbers and helping players find them on their cards while playing bingo.
• Give manicures, many elderly women love to have their nails done. It is a simple way to make someone feel young and pretty again.
• Cleaning and tidying up is always a huge help for nursing home staff.
• Personal relationships are so important to residents and their well being. Working with the same person and building a relationship is often the best way to go about volunteering.

Benefits

• Making new friends! Spending time with the same people consistently almost always leads to good friendships.
• Know that you are improving the lives of the people you meet, moving away from your home and losing your independence is not an easy transition for residents.
• Job experience, by working with a well-respected organization like a nursing home, you can add the position to your resume or list of references.
• Invaluable service to your community.

If you are interested about learning more, finding local nursing homes or searching for local volunteer opportunities visit: http://local-nursing-homes.com

Nursing Homes Charity Spotlight: TAFA

The statistics are staggering. Over half of those living in nursing homes will pass away without a friend. The Turn-A-Frown-Around Foundation, Inc (TAFA) decided that people living in nursing homes, psychiatric wards and partial care programs need and deserve a friend. TAFA’s mission is to help isolated individuals attain a sense of hope and well-being through the affirmation and recognition of others. They do this by matching caregivers, mostly volunteers, who bring love, laughter and a listening ear to those who need it.

Started by Drew Horn in August of 2001, a self-proclaimed “motivational, inspirational comic and clown,” TAFA continues to draw its motivation from Mother Teresa and Patch Adams, both individuals who found ways to bring light into others lives. Some of TAFA’s activities include:

• Personal visits and being a Forever Friend
• Phone buddies
• Emails to the lonely
• Motivational comedy
• Skits
• Songs
• Performances that showcase the talents of volunteers

Nursing home residents often find themselves feeling isolated or forgotten. The Forever Friend program allows volunteers to spend time with residents at nursing homes who are without family, friends or visitors, hoping to help them feel more connected and loved. The program requires Forever Friends to visit their assigned friend for at least 20 minutes a week. If you are interested in learning more about ways to help in TAFA’s mission, visit http://turnafrownaround.org/help_out/index.html.

Local Nursing Homes offers special flowers and gifts http://local-nursing-homes.com/flowers to send your loved one at any time. You can also check out different volunteer opportunities here: http://local-nursing-homes.com/nursing-homes-volunteer

Choosing Where to Go for Nursing Home Care

It’s expected that by the end of the year 3.3 million elderly Americans will be living under nursing home care. This means that of people aged 65 and older, 1 in 7 will live in nursing home care, while 1 in 5 of those over the age of 85 will live under nursing home care. For the millions of Americans requiring such care, it’s important that they know where the best nursing homes in the country are located.

This past January, 3,036 of the nation’s nursing homes received the highest possible rating of 5 stars from the United States’ government. Residents of larger states might not have the best luck finding a quality nursing home, despite the number of choices. For example, Tennessee has over 300 nursing homes, although only about a sixth of those nursing homes received 5 stars from the US government.

California has the most 5-star nursing homes with a staggering 312. Rounding out the top five are Pennsylvania with 160, Illinois with 156, Florida with 141, and Ohio with 137.  5-star ratings are given to nursing homes which excel in State-conducted health inspections, nursing and physical therapy staffing, and quality of medical care.

When choosing a nursing home, you should put the quality of the home at the forefront of your search. Make sure you’re getting your top dollar when it comes to paying for care, as sending a loved one away doesn’t come cheap. If it makes sense to send your loved one further away for better care, make sure it’s at least to a facility you can trust.

The Growing Number of Nursing Home Residents

There is a startling reality in the United States that over 1.3 million seniors are living in nursing home care. This number is growing every decade, as medicine gets better, and people are living longer than ever. At the price tag that averages nearly $83,000 a year per resident, it’s no wonder why the nursing home industry is as big as it is.

The largest generation of Americans is the “baby boomer” generation, made up of post World War II babies. This period extended all the way from 1946, up until 1964, and consisted of nearly 76 million babies being born in the United States.

While many would prefer not to live in nursing home care, the truth is that at a certain age, many Americans need such care.  Pretty soon, America’s greatest generation will be filling out nursing homes, as more baby boomers are becoming senior citizens every day. In fact, nearly 10,000 baby boomers are turning 65 years old every day! At the price tag of about $83,000 per resident, the future for the nursing home industry looks bright.

Not only are these baby boomers becoming seniors in droves, they’re also living longer. The average life span is currently about 83.8 year old. That’s almost 19 years of being a senior citizen. It’s no wonder why the number of people living in nursing home care is higher today than it ever has been in the past..

How to Pay for Nursing Home Care

There’s a very good chance that at some point, someone in your family will need to be placed under nursing home care. In fact, most people over the age of 65 will require long-term care at some point during their life, while 40% will need a brief period of care at the very least. Unfortunately, paying for a nursing home isn’t always easy. The cost of such care can be a serious financial headache to you, and your family. Luckily, there are a few things that you can do to help ease your burden.

Planning for future nursing home care is not unlike planning for college. You should start saving well ahead of time, and have a plan in place. A long-term care insurance plan, such as Medigap, or a plan provided by your employer can really help offset the costs of living in a nursing home. Usually these plans have to be in place before any kind of event that would send someone to a nursing home, and is impossible to attain once a serious accident, or health problem has occurred. This needs to be considered, as the price of a private room in 2012 was estimated to be as much as $248 a day.

Check to see if Medicare will help cover the costs of sending your loved one to a nursing home. Medicaid provides coverage for short-term, or rehabilitation stays, but does not cover long-term care. In fact, Medicare will only cover up to the first 100 days of care, so keep that in mind when the need for a nursing home arises.

Medicaid can be a better option for some of those who don’t have the funds to provide nursing home care for a loved one. However, there are several different qualifications for Medicaid, as the program is meant to benefit those who truly need it. Make sure you qualify before seeking Medicaid assistance.

Good Questions to Ask a Nursing Home Staff

In addition to asking your loved one some questions to find out if they are receiving the best possible care, you may also want to consider asking the staff some questions.  These problems are even more important if your loved one has a pre-existing medical condition, such as dementia, heart disease, or Alzheimer’s. 

Ensure that your loved one appears happy.  Make sure they aren’t showing any signs of being depressed, and are making the adjustment to living in a nursing home facility smoothly.  If there are problems, talk to the staff about what they are planning to do to resolve these issues.

Here are some good questions to ask the staff:

• Is your loved one being social, and regularly interacting with the staff and other residents?
• Are they getting their medication as prescribed?  Make sure your loved one is receiving his or her medications at the proper times to avoid complications, and unnecessary risk.
• Are they eating the right meals?  Make sure the staff is keenly aware of any medical conditions, and has adjusted your loved one’s diet accordingly.  For example, if they have a heart condition make sure they are kept on a low-sodium, low-fat diet.
• Have any of their medications changed?
• Is your loved one getting enough exercise?  Make sure that they are getting out of their room, and staying in good physical condition.  This can help them work through some of the stress that comes with living in a nursing home facility, and help promote a healthier lifestyle.

Keep up-to-date with your loved one’s time in the facility.  If they had a recent accident, health issue, or behavioral problem talk to the staff and make sure that the issue was resolved properly. 

Lastly, make sure you’re doing your part.  Be a reliable resource for the staff.  If they have questions about your loved one’s medical history or personality, make sure you’re available to answer all of their questions.  The best way to ensure that your loved one is getting the care that he or she deserves is by working with them, as well as the staff to better understand their needs.

Asking Your Loved Ones the Right Questions to Ensure That They Receive the Best Care

You may think that your work is done, and you can rest easy once you find the right nursing home for your loved one.  This is not necessarily the case.  You can do more in order to ensure that your senior is getting the best care possible.  In order to understand if your senior’s needs are being met, try asking them the following questions:

• Do you feel as though you are safe here?
• Are you being respected by the staff?
• Are you as comfortable as possible?
• Are you worried by anything?
• What do you think of the staff?
• Is there a staff member you like in particular?
• Have you made any friends here?
• How long does it take a staff member to answer the call button?

When asking these questions you should put yourself in your loved one’s position.  If you were in a nursing home are these the questions you would like your family to be asking you?  Make sure you ask these questions in a reserved manor.  Don’t make your senior feel as though they’re being interrogated.  Simply find out some of your loved one’s opinions of the nursing home in order to determine whether the treatment at this facility is suitable for him or her. 
 

If your senior is truly concerned about some aspects of living in a particular nursing home, you should be able to tell rather quickly by asking questions such as these.  In that event, it might be time to speak to some of the administrators of that nursing home, or consider moving your loved one to a different nursing home altogether.  Just be sure to put your loved one’s needs first, and find out what they would prefer to do.

The Importance of a Call Button

Patient falls are an unnecessary risk in nursing homes.  In most cases, patients fall because they are trying to satisfy a need that was not being tended to.  These falls can lead to serious injuries like fractures, and can cause patients to develop a disability, or show a general decline in quality of life over a short period of time. 

These falls are not the fault of the residents; they are the fault of the nursing home staff for failing to provide the residents with enough resources.  In order to avoid these unfortunate situations, nursing home staffs should educate their residents to use a help, or call button.  If a patient needs something their initial reaction should be to ask for help rather than try to get something done on their own. 

There are a few other things you can do to cut back on these falls:

 

•   Make sure anything that a patient needs on a regular basis, (phone, water, etc.), is within reach of a patient’s bed. 
•   Are your residents falling because they’re getting up to turn on the television?  Set the television to turn on automatically when the patient generally wakes up. 
•    Help your patient find their way to the restroom by turning the bathroom light on at night. 
•    Check in regularly with your patients to make sure that they are being escorted to the restroom as needed.

These are just a few simple tips, but they can go a long way toward reducing the number of patient falls in any nursing home. 

Some Things to Remember When Visiting a Nursing Home

When visiting someone in a nursing home, it’s important to remember a few things while you’re there.  Some of these might seem like common sense, but it’s always good to be reminded of a few simple things.

•  Be as supportive and loving as you possibly can.  While a visit to a nursing home might not seem like such a big deal to you, it could really brighten the day of your loved one.  Make sure they know that they are still loved, and are not just there out of necessity.
  

•  Don’t just surprise your loved ones with a visit.  Residents have lives too.  You don’t want to disrupt the daily order of their lives with a surprise visit.  Make sure you plan out your visits in advance, with both of your schedules in mind.
  

• Pay close attention to your loved one, and be respectful.  Listen to some of their stories, and let them enjoy taking an active part in the conversation.
  

•  Treat the residents like adults, not children.  The fact that some residents require extra care for physical and mental disabilities his doesn’t mean they deserve any less of your respect.
  

• Keep your loved one up-to-date with your life, and how the family is doing.  Without being around the family as much they might not feel as much a part of the family as they used to.  Doing so makes them feel more loved.
  

• If you have children, make sure you bring them with you so that they can develop a bond with your loved ones in the home too.  These trips can be very educational for children.
  

• Be cordial to other residents, not just the resident you came to visit.   Some of the other residents might not get to enjoy regular visits from their family, and a little hello can go a long way.
  

• Lastly, if you have the chance, take your loved one out for the day.   They spend enough time inside of the nursing home.  Why not let them enjoy some free time away from the home?
  
  

Federal Rating for Medicaid & Medicare Nursing Homes

You’ve probably noticed by now that we have 2 different types of ratings on local-nursing-homes.com- overall federal rating, and average user rating.  In late 2008, the federal government announced a new, 5-star rating system for all of the United States’ 15,800 nursing homes.  This marked the first time that these nursing homes were ever rated by the federal government.

Scoring for the rating system is based on information obtained from federal health inspection surveys, quality-of-care data, and staffing information.  In order for a nursing home to receive a 5-star rating all of the data must show that the nursing home is performing well above average; while conversely, a 1-star score indicates that a nursing home is performing well below average.

The initial scoring revealed the following:          

• 66% of nursing homes received two to four stars 
• 22% of nursing homes received just one star
• 12% of nursing homes received five stars

More recent scoring from the 15,670 nursing homes in our database revealed the following:

• 1 Star = 2,109 = 13.58%
• 2 Star = 3,059 = 19.69%
• 3 Star = 3,082 = 19.84%
• 4 Star = 4,256 = 27.40%
• 5 Star = 3,026 = 19.48%

Also, don’t use this information as the be-all, end-all for your nursing home search.  Check out user ratings.  Find out what the current residents of the nursing home have to say about their living conditions.

Below are the results of our 24,009 user ratings:

• 1 Star = 10,545 = 43.92%
• 2 Star =   2,033 =   8.47%
• 3 Star =   1,248 =   5.20%
• 4 Star =   1,935 =   8.06%
• 5 Star =   8,248 = 34.35%

When looking into the overall rating of a nursing home, you would be well-advised to take this information into account.  Check out the overall federal score of each nursing home that you might be considering.  Then, break that down and find out why that nursing home received that specific score.  Is there not enough staff?  Are the facilities not well-maintained?  These are all important aspects that are reviewed during federal inspections.

How to Choose the Right Nursing Home

Choosing the right nursing home for a loved one can be a complicated process.  There is a lot more that goes into selecting the right facility than just proximity and price.  Several other factors must be considered before making a commitment to any one single nursing home.  Here are some tips to help you select the right nursing home.

1. Take a look at how the staff treats current residents.  If the staff appears friendly and approachable, then this might be a facility to consider.

2. Are the staff members well-trained, and can take care of your loved one in the event of an emergency?

3. Are there nurses available around the clock?  This is important as emergencies can occur at any time, and it is very important that your loved one is in the right hands.

4. Make a call and speak with administrators before visiting a facility.

5.  Do your research.  Check out sites like Local-Nursing-Homes.com and see that people are saying about each potential nursing home.  What is the federal rating?  What are residents saying about the home?  These are all things to consider.

6. Cleanliness is important.  You want your elderly loved ones staying in a clean room, being bathed regularly by the staff.

7. Make sure the ratio of staff to residents acceptable.  You don’t want to choose a facility where the residents far outnumber the staff.  A small staff may not be able to care for each of their residents properly.

Remember to check out each facility in person.  There are certain things that you can’t find out from reading about a home online, or speaking on the phone.  Make the effort to evaluate a facility in person.

Sherman Oaks Health & Rehab 4 Star Review

New 4 Star Review of Sherman Oaks Health & Rehab Located in Sherman Oaks, California

"Sherman Oaks Rehab was not the first choice for my mother. The facility we wanted had no vacancies. However, It turned out to be a blessing because I am very happy here as is Mom. Nursing homes are never perfect but I found that Sherman Oaks Rehab was willing to work with me in making Mom comfortable and well cared for. I spend 6 to 8 hours daily and I see how the employees treat those residents that have no outside visitors or family. They are loving and caring with these people, as well. I have called many times at all hours and they are wonderful in helping me with any concerns I might have. Most importantly, they are constantly striving to make this the best facility possible. I feel like they are an extended family."

http://local-nursing-homes.com/?rid=24972 

Kindred Transitional Care and Rehab-Highlander 5 Star Review

New 5 Star User Review of Kindred Transitional Care and Rehab-Highlander located in Fall River, Massachusetts

"My Mother in law is a resident on the 2nd floor . When I tell you she is the happiest she is been in a long while i'm understating. All the staff go above and beyond. example: Her glasses broke one day and Kevin took them home to fix them I thought that was a nice touch. She sings and dances and the staff sings with her. When I get to that time in my life where I need a home Kindred-highlander is..."

http://local-nursing-homes.com/?rid=23871

Crosbyton Nursing and Rehabilitation Center 1 Star Review

New 1 Star User Review of Crosbyton Nursing and Rehabilitation Center located in Crosbyton, Texas

"This is an old nonupdated facility. The batcrooms situation has 4 residents sharing one, with mixed genders. Therapy options are not sufficient. You are better off going down the road to Lubbock. Its further but you will at least have choice and better physical environments. 50% vacancy should tell you something."

http://local-nursing-homes.com/?rid=24265

Mckinley Park Care Center 1 Star Review

New 1 Star User Review of Mckinley Park Care Center located in Sacramento, California

"The facility is over crowded and the patients do not receive good care. Communication is poor and patient needs are not a high priority. My terminally-ill mother did not receive the treatment that was promised on admission. "

http://local-nursing-homes.com/?rid=24263

Wesleyan Village 1 Star Review

New 1 Star User Review of Wesleyan Village located in Elyria, Ohio

"My grandmother was at this facility 5 yrs ago. I chose to write this review after many years of considering it, and 5 years of her being gone. It was very difficult to find anyone there to answer our questions, or to get an aid for help at any point. They also happen to lose her dentures with no explanation, as well as her walker. I feel they staff low, considering how much this facility charges,..."

http://local-nursing-homes.com/?rid=24262

Ripley Crossing 1 Star Review

New 1 Star User Review of Ripley Crossing located in Milan, Indiana

"My Grandfather was taken to ripley crossings while he recovered and has since acquired a severe case of c-diff and almost died... Further more this place has cancelled my grandfathers bed at Arbors and has since held him so they can continue to collect his Medicare. He has not received proper treatment and was never properly quarantined after his c-diff diagnosis. "

http://local-nursing-homes.com/?rid=24260

Coronado Healthcare Center 1 Star Review

New 1 Star User Review of Coronado Healthcare Center located in Phoenix, Arizona

"very dirty all around. The room was dark and plain. The staff just placed my loved ones food tray in front of them and walked out. My loved one is a stroke patient who cannot feed themself or talk and a high risk for choking. Then 15 min later, staff came and took the tray right out without her taking one bite. My loved one has decubs and has lost alot of weight after being there only 2 weeks. "

http://local-nursing-homes.com/?rid=24259

Golden Living Center - Montgomery 1 Star Review

New 1 Star User Review of Golden Living Center - Montgomery located in Montgomery, Alabama

"Poor management at facility in Montgomery AL and at HQ and region. No follow-up with family on loved ones issues/needs/health status. Nursing staff not well managed and turnover is extremely high of medical and nursing staff. Prescriptions are not filled correctly or on a timely basis. Food quality is poor. Grounds are not well kept. Nurses smoke in all areas of facility. On weekends, door alarms..."

http://local-nursing-homes.com/?rid=23175

The Orchard - Post Acute Care 1 Star Review

New 1 Star User Review of The Orchard - Post Acute Care located in Whittier, California

"Orchard has made pretty updates from its past as Royal Court, still basic things are needed. Staff know the heating system is not predictable, ask an administrator about no heat in the room and it's always the first time they've heard about it. They offer more blankets, but how can a patient go to therapy covered in in blankets? Some staff are well trained, many CNA's are not careful enough with..."

http://local-nursing-homes.com/?rid=24258

Burke Health and Rehabilitation Center 2 Star Review

New 2 Star User Review of Burke Health and Rehabilitation Center located in Burke, Virginia

"The overall cleanliness of the facility was good. The cleaning ladies were constantly cleaning during the day it seemed. CNAs barely spoke English. There seemed to be a contest to see who could turn the call light off the fastest and never respond back to the patient. My father would push the call button, the nurse or CNA would come in, turn it off, and say, "I'll be right back", but..."

http://local-nursing-homes.com/?rid=24256

Baldwinville Nursing Home 5 Star Review

New 5 Star User Review of Baldwinville Nursing Home located in Baldwinville, Massachusetts

"Both of my parents are at this facility. My mother is a permanent resident and my father in rehab after his surgery. The staff is both knowledgeable & efficient, not to mention very kind. They know each and every resident by name and are always so friendly and cheerful. I am greatful that if my parents cannot live with me, they have a place like this to call home. "

http://local-nursing-homes.com/?rid=24255

Cameron Glen Health & Rehab Center 1 Star Review

New 1 Star User Review of Cameron Glen Health & Rehab Center located in Reston, Virginia

"It has not been owned by Inova for a couple of years. Inova sold Cameron Glen, and another one of their facilities in downtown Fairfax called Commonwealth Care Center to a company in Roanoke, Virginia called Commonwealth Care of Roanoke. Ever since Inova left, the standards of care have dropped tremendously. It has really gone downhill. One guy, who was on his death bed there told me they let him..."

http://local-nursing-homes.com/?rid=24254

Peachbelt Health & Rehab Ctr 5 Star Review

New 5 Star User Review of Peachbelt Health & Rehab Ctr located in Warner Robins, Georgia

"Excellent, high quality service; professional, friendly, caring staff ... treating everyone with care, respect and dignity - patients, families, staff. They care a lot and it shows. Peachbelt is extremely clean - no "nursing home" smells. They provided comfort and care for our 97-year old father in his last few weeks and valuable relief and support for the family. They absolutely made..."

http://local-nursing-homes.com/?rid=24250

The Rehabilitation Centre of Beverly Hills 2 Star Review

New 2 Star User Review of The Rehabilitation Centre of Beverly Hills located in Los Angeles, California

"The Rehab Center of Beverly Hills The center is clean, friendly, with good nursing and attendant services. The food is good. But, the Physiotherapy department is below par. If I were involved with Medicare payments, I would discontinue this physiotherapy department. There is very minimal therapy with the older deconditioned patients, who need it the most. Those who do need the therapy the most..."

http://local-nursing-homes.com/?rid=24247

Forest View Care & Rehabilitation Center 1 Star Review

New 1 Star User Review of Forest View Care & Rehabilitation Center located in Dayton, Ohio

"Our family member was admitted to this center with a prescription for a medication (an antibiotic that couldn't be substituted). It wasn't covered by insurance, so the staff discontinued the prescription because it was too expensive. Our family member died within a week."

http://local-nursing-homes.com/?rid=24243

Life Care Center of Paradise Valley 3 Star Review

New 3 Star User Review of Life Care Center of Paradise Valley located in Phoenix, Arizona

" My elderly mother has, in the last two years, been in 5 skilled nursing/rehab centers in the greater Phoenix area. Life Care is one of the cleaner facilities. But, the care provided is terrible, and, the staff, from the registered nurses on down, are careless at best, to incompetent at worst. Medicines were discontinued without doctor orders and not discovered until we inquired. My mother was..."

http://local-nursing-homes.com/?rid=24242

Lacrosse Health & Rehabilitation Center 2 Star Review

New 2 Star User Review of Lacrosse Health & Rehabilitation Center located in Coeur D Alene, Idaho

"Not impressed & not reccomending.Nothing like online photos.Visible staff occupied with paperwork.Front door alarmed, beeping & ignored for 15 minutes. Smelled of urine and diarhea .Very loud, residents crying all night with sleep also impossible for other residents. My loved one put into a wheelchair,not allowed to walk without a P.T., though he was walking when admitted and needed to do..."

http://local-nursing-homes.com/?rid=24241

Kindred Nursing and Rehabilitation-Madison 4 Star Review

New 4 Star User Review of Kindred Nursing and Rehabilitation-Madison located in Madison, Tennessee

"The do not follow the doctors advise, the techs do not follow the staff advise. The they were rude when the talk to the family, and just lied to their face. The techs like to party when no one is around (Christmas Eve 1012 they brought in their beer). They don't check in on the patients during the day enough."

http://local-nursing-homes.com/?rid=24202

Snug Harbor on Nelson Bay 1 Star Review

New 1 Star User Review of Snug Harbor on Nelson Bay located in Sealevel, North Carolina

"Grandfather broke his arm. He was restrained in Geri Chair. He had urinary infection and was distressed. Snugg Harbor failed to have test done and failed to call the Dr. for medical care. He was in Hospital for his arm. We moved him to more caring nursing home. NOT a safe place for your loved one. "

http://local-nursing-homes.com/?rid=23180

Merry Heart of Boonton Township 2 Star Review

New 2 Star User Review of Merry Heart of Boonton Township located in Boonton, New Jersey

"The facility is old, furnishings and decor out of date, but folks are there to get well, and that shouldn't be an issue. Some staff members are very good and conscientious, but the medical care itself is poor. For the first week, my mom was being overmedicated and had no energy to perform the physical therapy that she was there for. I had a tough time getting a hold of the physician in order to question..."

http://local-nursing-homes.com/?rid=24237

Louisburg Nursing Center 3 Star Review

New 3 Star User Review of Louisburg Nursing Center located in Louisburg, North Carolina

"My sister was placed at the facility after her liver cancer surgery at UNC. I spent quite a bit of time observing interactions between staff and patients. I was not impressed. The staff for the most part was cold and indifferent. Patients would ask for something and be totally ignored. My sister also told me that they were very mean to her so I pulled her out the next day. She was bruised from..."

http://local-nursing-homes.com/?rid=24230

Sea Cliff Healthcare Center 1 Star Review

New 1 Star User Review of Sea Cliff Healthcare Center located in Huntington Beach, California

"I have asked for two weeks straight ...now going onto the third week for the Registered Dietitian to see my family member. I was told that she was "out marketing". I went to complain to the Administrator...he was "Out Marketing" with the Registered Dietitian. I have never heard of a healthcare building having the Registered Dietitian and the Administrator out "Marketing..."

http://local-nursing-homes.com/?rid=24226

The Carlyle at Stonebridge Park 1 Star Review

New 1 Star User Review of The Carlyle at Stonebridge Park located in Southlake, Texas

"If you are thinking of putting your loved one in this facility, DON'T! It provides no care whatsoever! And even though families complained to the State authorities repeatedly, nothing has improved. I was told by one of the doctors that the reason for the revolving door of caregivers was because none of them lived in the area and as soon as they found a job closer to their homes, they quit. That..."

http://local-nursing-homes.com/?rid=24223

Buena Vida Nursing and Rehab-San Antonio 1 Star Review

New 1 Star User Review of Buena Vida Nursing and Rehab-San Antonio located in San Antonio, Texas

"I spoke with the DON today because I was interested in having a family member admitted there and the DON, I wish I got her name was so RUDE! She didn't even allow me to get the fax number because she said "why does your family member need to come here". Once I told her the issues, she discriminated against my aunt due to her medical condition! I'm happy I got to see the real colors before..."

http://local-nursing-homes.com/?rid=24222

Byrd Haven Nursing Home 1 Star Review

New 1 Star User Review of Byrd Haven Nursing Home located in Searcy, Arkansas

"Inadequate staffing on the rehab side at the very least. When a patient rings to request assistance to use the restroom, they shouldn't have to wait 1-1 1/2 hours & then be told to just go in their depends because of shift change. If you don't have the staff to care for the patient's decrease patient load or increase staffing. The level of care provided is abysmal. It's a beautiful facility..."

http://local-nursing-homes.com/?rid=24219

Amberwood Manor 5 Star Review

New 5 Star User Review of Amberwood Manor located in New Philadelphia, Ohio

"Great nursing home, caring and attentive staff, delicious food, and wonderful therapy!!! The rooms are quite large and comfortable compared to other nursing homes I have seen. I recommend Amberwood over any other nursing home in Tuscarawas County."

http://local-nursing-homes.com/?rid=24217

Heartland of Tamarac 1 Star Review

New 1 Star User Review of Heartland of Tamarac located in Fort Lauderdale, Florida

"This place is horrible for critical care! My family memeber starved to death as the bedside nurse never showed. The Hospice has on record a 24hour bedside assistant nurse and when I showed up unannounced because of a phone conversation with the patient screaming to get them out of there, no nurse was there. The patient was to be on a puree diet and an egg salad sandwich was delivered to the patient..."

http://local-nursing-homes.com/?rid=24216

Buckingham Valley Rehab & Nursing Center 2 Star Review

New 2 Star User Review of Buckingham Valley Rehab & Nursing Center located in Buckingham, Pennsylvania

"My mother was admitted in Buckhm. on 6/29/05. At first it seemed to be a somewhat decent place for her to be but as months went by it was obvious that they were over-drugging her although I could not prove it. They insisted that it was dementia. She was 91yrs at the time so it seemed to be a good answer. She was VERY sharp but then she started sitting with her head in her hand, mouth open and..."

http://local-nursing-homes.com/?rid=24215

Central Texas Nursing & Rehabilitation 5 Star Review

New 5 Star User Review of Central Texas Nursing & Rehabilitation located in Ballinger, Texas

"My father-in-law is a resident there. He received excellent care and there are no complaints. He has received therapy and done well. The nursing and the therapy are great. "

http://local-nursing-homes.com/?rid=24080

Transitional Health Services of Kannapolis 2 Star Review

New 2 Star User Review of Transitional Health Services of Kannapolis located in Kannapolis, North Carolina

"After reading the reviews on this website, I was so thrilled to have my mother admitted to Transitional for physical therapy. I quickly changed my mind. Although the facility appears to be clean the patient care is appalling. Although my mother could not feed herself, the staff did not assist her. The residents were often left in the dining room for over an hour before dinner was served. They refused..."

http://local-nursing-homes.com/?rid=24213

Hanover House 1 Star Review

New 1 Star User Review of Hanover House located in Massillon, Ohio

"Poor housekeeping was evident as we noticed the same dirty pictures/tv dusty in the room for weeks. The linen was dingy and never smelled fresh. The staff is so busy trying to keep up with the work because there is only 1 or 2 at best on a hall at a time, that you better hope that there is not more than 2 people that need anything at any one given time. But do not say anything to the "higher..."

http://local-nursing-homes.com/?rid=24204

Autumn Care of Myrtle Grove 4 Star Review

New 4 Star User Review of Autumn Care of Myrtle Grove located in Wilmington, North Carolina

" We put my mom in autumn care of myrtle grove about 4 months ago. I can say that it is one of the cleanest smelling homes I have visited. I think that says alot about the staff alone.CNA's have been great! Always friendly and happy to see us visit.Nursing staff always calls when something changes with my mom that they feel I need to know right away.So far I would recommend this home to anyone. Oh..."

http://local-nursing-homes.com/?rid=24201

Kindred Nursing and Rehabilitation-Danville 4 Star Review

New 4 Star User Review of Kindred Nursing and Rehabilitation-Danville located in Danville, Kentucky

"Excellant. I have experienced similar facilities here and in other states with several members of my extended family. This is the most caring staff I have been around. My mother is 99 and in the wing devoted to dimentia patients. Aside from the great daily care they have dealt with her medical problems in the most proffesional way. We are blessed to have this situation here in our home town."

http://local-nursing-homes.com/?rid=24198

Consulate Health Care at West Altamonte 1 Star Review

New 1 Star User Review of Consulate Health Care at West Altamonte located in Altamonte Springs, Florida

"I cannot begin to verbalize my complete contempt for this facility but I will give it a try! My relative was in for rehab but was placed on the longterm facility side which is the "ghetto" side of the building. Once you entered the residence halls, you are immediately greeted with the smell of urine and feces. I bought some deoderizer but was told that I could not keep it there according..."

http://local-nursing-homes.com/?rid=24193

Chester Valley Rehab and Nursing Center 1 Star Review

New 1 Star User Review of Chester Valley Rehab and Nursing Center located in Malvern, Pennsylvania

"Relative was recently admitted there from discharge of hospital stay and this was only facility that had available space at the time. Over this stay and due to number of various issues and complaints reported to staff that were not followed up by facility management for the most part, relative was then taken out by family and returned to personal residence. Since then we have found that different..."

http://local-nursing-homes.com/?rid=24192

Good Samaritan Society - Albert Lea 1 Star Review

New 1 Star User Review of Good Samaritan Society - Albert Lea located in Albert Lea, Minnesota

"My Step-Father was in this facility for Hospice treatment as a result of late stage cancer. He was given a prescription from the physician to give a pain reliever at his request due to intesity of pain he was experiencing. Many times my mom was told by staff it was "too early" for the medication even though the permission was given in writing to the R.N. This put him in extreme discomfort..."

http://local-nursing-homes.com/?rid=24191

Powerback Rehabilitation 1 Star Review

New 1 Star User Review of Powerback Rehabilitation located in Lutherville Timonium, Maryland

"I would give this facility a resounding "F". I went straight there from the hospital after knee replacement surgery. I thought this would make sense rather that go home. What a mistake. I was shown my room. This was the only part that went ok. Twice I was brought someone else's paperwork to sign. I was never given my meds on time. On my first night I was supposed to have my pain meds..."

http://local-nursing-homes.com/?rid=24190

Kindred Transitional Care & Rehabilitation-Mobile 5 Star Review

New 5 Star User Review of Kindred Transitional Care & Rehabilitation-Mobile located in Mobile, Alabama

"In the beginning of my family member's stay in Kindred, the CNAs, who seemed to only be temporary, for my family member needed to attend to diaper changes more frequently. However, most of the healthcare staff (RNs & CNAs) are nice to and patient with my family member and to her family. Also, the physical therapists and members of the billing/Medicaid team are great, though the therapists and..."

http://local-nursing-homes.com/?rid=24189

Osage Nursing & Rehabilitation Center 5 Star Review

New 5 Star User Review of Osage Nursing & Rehabilitation Center located in Osage City, Kansas

"We moved my father to this center about 6 months ago. He was previously somewhere else that was terrible. This center is wonderful. There are always people around to keep an eye on everyone, and they seem to be very diligent and caring. My dad seems very happy there, which makes all of his family very relieved. Thanks for your great care."

http://local-nursing-homes.com/?rid=24184

Shady Acres Inc 2 Star Review

New 2 Star User Review of Shady Acres Inc located in West Kingston, Rhode Island

"I went to visit my stepfather at Shady Acres & found him deceased in his bed. I had to tell the staff that I thought he had passed. Not sure how long he was gone. To their credit, though.... The nurses & other staff were very kind to me once they realized what had happened."

http://local-nursing-homes.com/?rid=24183

Manorcare of Hinsdale 1 Star Review

New 1 Star User Review of Manorcare of Hinsdale located in Hinsdale, Illinois

"My wife had to be sent to Hinsdale Hosp at 5am jan.4th.When she was admitted in ICU and checked out the nurses were appalled at the condition she was in,including feces not cleaned,dehydrated,Puss in the uretha,and thick urine. All the many times she had her wet diaper changed no one ever checked the urine and just put it in the garbage.These are only a few things that happened during her 2 month..."

http://local-nursing-homes.com/?rid=24181

Village Care Rehab and Nursing Ctr 3 Star Review

New 3 Star User Review of Village Care Rehab and Nursing Ctr located in New York, New York

"Very impressed with the PT and OT services. All other services such as food, aides and cleaness are average. One complaint is that social worker never returned one single phone call and was never available from numerous voice messages from Thanksgiving to Christmas during my mom's 2 month stay. I felt the need to address this online. So frustrating!"

http://local-nursing-homes.com/?rid=24180

Braden River Care Center 5 Star Review

New 5 Star User Review of Braden River Care Center located in Bradenton, Florida

"Very nice facility. My mom stayed there for 6 weeks after having knee surgery and received wonderful care. She is home now and doing great thanks to the great people taking care of her. Thank You."

http://local-nursing-homes.com/?rid=13928

Wathena Healthcare & Rehabilitation Center 5 Star Review

New 5 Star User Review of Wathena Healthcare & Rehabilitation Center located in Wathena, Kansas

"The dignity and repect shown by the staff of Wathena Healthcare is very rewarding to witness. They try very hard to repect the wishes of each and every resident. The facility is very clean and well cared for and they really do treat the residents like members of their families. The activities there are very engaging with indidvidual acitivities of any interest. The care was very very good. "

http://local-nursing-homes.com/?rid=24175

Forwood Manor 1 Star Review

New 1 Star User Review of Forwood Manor located in Wilmington, Delaware

"My Mother had just been received in this healthcare facilities for rehab and I'm not please at all...the CNA'S sit around talking with one another when you need someone to assist your love one they take forever and there was a nurse who didnt know what she was doing when she was put a new bandage on my mother, i told her that, that was not the proper way of putting it on..then she stated that she..."

http://local-nursing-homes.com/?rid=24171

Civic Center Health and Rehabilitation, LLC 5 Star Review

New 5 Star User Review of Civic Center Health and Rehabilitation, LLC located in Birmingham, Alabama

"The staff and therapists here are truly amazing. They are very attentive to the needs of the patients and do not loose their cool with the patients. (even the difficult ones.) They really care about the people there and their families. The building is older, but they keep it up, clean it constantly and do a great job keeping it smelling clean! The therapy department works with the patients every day..."

http://local-nursing-homes.com/?rid=24169

Kindred Transitional Care & Rehab-The Meadows 5 Star Review

New 5 Star User Review of Kindred Transitional Care & Rehab-The Meadows located in Rochdale, Massachusetts

"I wanted to Thank you for having such a wonderful Rehab stay. I was totally satisfied while being a patient at The Meadows in October 2012. I was on the 2nd floor and very impressed with all the Doctors, Nurses, CNAs etc.... The staff was very respectful, patient, knowlegable and caring. The surroundings were very clean and comfortable. I enjoyed the meals very much!! I would definitely recommend..."

http://local-nursing-homes.com/?rid=24164

Aurora Senior Living of East Hartford, LLC 1 Star Review

New 1 Star User Review of Aurora Senior Living of East Hartford, LLC located in East Hartford, Connecticut

"As a local physician, whom has had many visits to this facility, i am amazed that after losing 4 directors of nursing in 6 months, 4 MSW workers in the same time period and the rudest direct care nurses i have seen in 33 yrs of experience in healthcare, how are they still in business? Professional staff do not leave in this manner unless their is fear of how the place is run , which could threaten..."

http://local-nursing-homes.com/?rid=24163

Deptford Center for Rehabilitation and Healthcare 1 Star Review

New 1 Star User Review of Deptford Center for Rehabilitation and Healthcare located in Woodbury, New Jersey

"Agree with previous reviews. A family member was recently there for a short stay. The place was filthy: a roach visited the room!! The floors are old and dirty, the closets were missing the formica covering, the radiators were rusty, the windowsills were falling apart, the bathroom had leaking and stained ceiling tiles. The aides did not assist getting out of bed: even stood in room watching patient..."

http://local-nursing-homes.com/?rid=24162

Amberwood Manor 5 Star Review

New 5 Star User Review of Amberwood Manor located in New Philadelphia, Ohio

"My dad has been at Amberwood Manor several different times for rehab, and each time he is treated with the utmost respect, individuality, and receives the best care imaginable. The nurses and aides at Amberwood Manor are soooo kind and caring. The administrative staff helped with insurance and discharge planning. Everything always goes so smoothly. I would recommend this facility above all others..."

http://local-nursing-homes.com/?rid=22366

Desoto Healthcare Center 1 Star Review

New 1 Star User Review of Desoto Healthcare Center located in Southaven, Mississippi

"This is a horrbile place. It smells like urine when you walk down the halls. The nurses do not bath or care for the elderly like they should be doing. My grandmother was dropped by a nurse that tried to pick her up instead of using a lift like they are suppose to. This place seriously has alot of problems and the state needs to come in and see how this place really is."

http://local-nursing-homes.com/?rid=24161

Kindred Transitional Care & Rehab-The Meadows 5 Star Review

New 5 Star User Review of Kindred Transitional Care & Rehab-The Meadows located in Rochdale, Massachusetts

"I'm a 71-year-old male with a diagnose a COPD with home oxygen use. I had a sudden exacerbation of my COPD and was intubated in placed on life-support, I was in the intensive care unit at the acute care hospital for approximately 7 days. My family was told I probably was not going to survive. With their help care I improved and needed to to be placed in a rehab facility to help me continue my therapies..."

http://local-nursing-homes.com/?rid=24101

Astoria Health and Rehabilitation Center 5 Star Review

New 5 Star User Review of Astoria Health and Rehabilitation Center located in Winter Haven, Florida

"I couldn't believe how knowledgeable and well-informed the staff was. They were able to answer all my questions, except the ones they needed to have their boss's input on. It was great to be able to talk to such a skilled staff. They always dress so professionally here, the entire staff obviously makes an effort to look their best and maintain a very professional appearance. The equipment at this..."

http://local-nursing-homes.com/?rid=24117

Frostburg Village 2 Star Review

New 2 Star User Review of Frostburg Village located in Frostburg, Maryland

"Mom has been here less then 24 hours and I am already looking for an alternate Nursing facility. Upon arrival we were greeted and a wonderful lady helped our family with paperwork and the emotional aspects of checking Mom into her room. It seemed the first order of business was to put her in a chair to weigh her. The girls put a gait belt around her bare skin and pulled her up. A gait belt is never..."

http://local-nursing-homes.com/?rid=24159

Wilshire at Lakewood 3 Star Review

New 3 Star User Review of Wilshire at Lakewood located in Lees Summit, Missouri

"We have been fortunate to have several of the health care providers be of excellent quality.Fortunately they are the norm, but there have been a few folk that have made this difficult. Transitioning to a facility is difficult, and that process was not made any easier by certain "professionals" not taking their duties seriously . We are also very disappointed in the quality of the food..."

http://local-nursing-homes.com/?rid=24157

Parker Jewish Institute for H C & Rehab 2 Star Review

New 2 Star User Review of Parker Jewish Institute for H C & Rehab located in New Hyde Park, New York

"Family member stayed for a week & was like Hell! The staff look miserable like the patients. Patient was dragged from bed to do pt regardless of patient's refusal. The patient peed in the wheelchair after yelling, & nobody came for help for 30 minutes. What a horrible experience for someone already in pain! No TLC for sure. We transferred patient out after a week. "

http://local-nursing-homes.com/?rid=24151

Life Care Center of Old Hickory Village 1 Star Review

New 1 Star User Review of Life Care Center of Old Hickory Village located in Old Hickory, Tennessee

"My mother just left this facility to be admitted back into the hospital with a new UTI, eye infection and a bedsore she did not have upon arrival. In addition, several life threatening medical issues were ignored even after I brought them to the staff's attention. No communication between the staff or oncoming shifts. OT and PT were very good though."

http://local-nursing-homes.com/?rid=24149

Kindred Transitional Care & Rehab-Pickeringtoni 5 Star Review

New 5 Star User Review of Kindred Transitional Care & Rehab-Pickeringtoni located in Pickerington, Ohio

"Kindred has taken care of our father for about 6 months and we are extremely grateful and appreciative of their professionalism in all aspects of services rendered. Our father recently was fortunate enough to be moved from "Hospice" status. He has returned to rehab and hopefully will be coming home soon. We can't thank all the staff enough for the genuine care our father has received. Professional..."

http://local-nursing-homes.com/?rid=24146