Luther Ridge at Seiders Hill

There are many decisions that go into the process of choosing a nursing home for yourself or someone you care for. It is normal for the family and the resident to experience some degree of anxiety about the move. A life change as important as moving into a nursing home should be handled with care and should be made as comfortable as possible. Residents and family members can make the transition easiest by remaining informed and by proactively seeking a caring environment where the resident will feel most at home. During the transition, frustrations may occur while your loved one is becoming accustomed to the new surroundings.

Families are encouraged to decorate the resident's living area with personal belongings such as flowers, pictures, and other memorabilia. -Personal clothing (day and night-time wear) -Comfortable, non-skid shoes -Lightweight sweaters -Personal equipment (wheelchairs, walkers, canes, etc.)

Long-term care insurance is becoming more common, but benefits vary by insurance provider and policy. It is important to check with your insurance carrier to determine your policy s exact coverage for ongoing, long-term care.

Hospitals are designed for patients who have serious medical problems that can be treated only in a hospital. Insurance companies may review and stop insurance benefits when you no longer need acute hospital care. A nursing center can provide the continuing medical care and rehabilitation services you need to help you recover from illness or injury so that you can return home as soon as possible.

The social worker at the hospital or nursing center will assist you in determining the appropriate payer source (which may include Medicare, Medicaid or private insurance). If you need Medicaid to cover the cost of nursing home care, you will be referred to a Medicaid worker to help you with the Medicaid application process.

You and your family member(s) should select several nursing centers for evaluation. Placement often happens very quickly so contact, visit and tour as many nursing centers as practical. Be sure to ask questions that address what you believe will be most important to your loved one. We offer a convenient informational sheet to help you consider the various factors. Please talk to our admissions staff for a free copy.