Choosing between a nursing home and another type of care facility can be a daunting task for families. What level of care does your loved one need? What are the differences between nursing homes and other assisted-care centers? How can you be sure a facility is safe?
We entrust nursing homes and similar entities to care for and protect our elderly loved ones, but nursing home abuse remains a growing concern in Wisconsin and nationwide. Following, the experienced nursing home abuse attorneys at Boller & Vaughan discuss how Wisconsin categorizes nursing homes and other elder-care centers, and some differences to consider if you’re preparing to move a family member into such a facility.
According to Wisconsin statute, a nursing home is:
“…a place where 5 or more persons who are not related to the operator or administrator reside, receive care or treatment and, because of their mental or physical condition, require access to 24-hour nursing services, including limited nursing care, intermediate level nursing care and skilled nursing services.”
There are a few exceptions outlined in the legislation as well. For example, nursing homes ARE NOT:
There’s a reason Wisconsin and other states make a legal distinction between nursing homes and other care facilities: States and the federal government have an interest in how nursing homes are operated since Medicare and Medicaid are commonly used to pay for admission.
To qualify for this funding, nursing homes must meet specific criteria and follow state and federal regulations. While federal laws dictate minimum requirements, states can impose stricter laws, depending on the needs of their community.
Furthermore, as reports of nursing home abuse increase, governments, businesses, and private organizations are attempting to reduce the problem. According to one congressional report, almost one in three nursing home facilities were cited for violations that had the potential to cause harm, and nearly 10 percent of all nursing homes have violations that caused actual harm, serious injury, or premature death.
While it’s common for people to use the terms interchangeably, nursing homes and assisted-living facilities are distinct in their ability to aid the elderly. To ensure a good fit for your family member, it’s important to understand how they differ and assess the level of care your loved one needs.
Nursing home care includes daily personal care (bathing, meals, medication management, etc.) as well as skilled nursing and some medical treatments. Rooms are often shared, recreational areas and activities may be limited, and 24-hour supervision is required.
Nursing homes are for people who require extensive personal care and are not mobile without assistance. Patients may have severe cognitive impairments and may be resistant to assistance or suffer behavioral problems.
Assisted-living centers and CBRFs offer assistance with daily activities and medication management, but they are not held to the same standards as nursing homes. Residents typically have a private room or suite, as well as access to common living spaces and outside recreation areas.
Assisted-living facilities are ideal for individuals who can walk, require minor assistance with personal care, and are receptive to help. Some assisted-living facilities offer memory care units designed to aid those with Alzheimer’s disease or dementia.
All facilities differ slightly. Be vigilant as you investigate the options; there are plenty of web tools available to help you pick a reputable Wisconsin nursing home.
If you believe a loved one is a victim of neglect or abuse in a nursing home or other assisted-care center, it’s important to act fast. Call the Madison nursing home abuse lawyers at Boller & Vaughan at 608-268-0268 or contact us online.
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We live in Friendship, Wisconsin, and Boller & Vaughan came to our doorstep to discuss our mother’s wrongful death claim on a Saturday morning. Not only were we pleased with the large recovery, we were so thankful to have lawyers who were willing to explain to us every twist and turn along the way. It is great to know there is a law firm that will fight for the rights of elderly people all over Wisconsin.
Mr. Boller and Ms. Vaughan were incredible in working on my case and my daughter’s case. I was out of work and in the hospital with a new baby. Mr. Boller and Ms. Vaughan protected our rights and it was a pleasure to work with them. I hope never to be in another motor vehicle accident, however, if I am and I am injured, I will contact Boller & Vaughan immediately.
I was referred to Michelle through a friend. I have never had a better experience. It took a little over a year to get my settlement but the staff there stayed in constant contact and kept me in the loop. Oh, and Michelle actually got me MORE money than we discussed. I will refer anyone to this firm. Words cannot do justice the thanks that I have for Michelle and her staff (Mary especially) thank you guys so much!
After my husband died as a result of a motor vehicle accident, Boller & Vaughan spent countless hours talking with me, meeting with me in person, and making sure that I was okay. The drunk driver who hit us did not have any insurance, and we had to make a claim through our own insurance. Boller & Vaughan was fantastic at explaining the law to me and the handling of our claims.
After my son was injured in a daycare setting, Ms. Vaughan took the time to thoroughly investigate our case and my son’s injuries. Michele was approachable and had answers to our questions. Talking with her helped to relieve many of our anxieties.
