Nursing Homes near Los Angeles, CA

Nursing homes are often a sensitive subject between loved ones, but sometimes it's the option that makes the most sense. Nursing homes provide daily care for individuals who can no longer care for themselves. It's best for families to start thinking about these options sooner rather than later, and help loved ones adjust to the idea of going to live in a nursing home.

Living in Los Angeles

Historically, native tribes dominated the land until Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo claimed it for Spain. The land went to Mexico following the Mexican War of Independence, and then at the end of the Mexican-American war, the United States purchased the city. In the modern world, Los Angeles is known for its Mediterranean climate, ethnic diversity, horrible traffic, celebrity culture, and film and television industry. Often considered a global city, L.A. has strengths in business, international trade, entertainment, media, fashion, science, research, and medicine. Given the weather and healthy-living lifestyle trends, L.A. is an ideal place for retirement and nursing home care, especially if it means being closer to creative family members who live and work in the area.

Understanding When It's Time

Life gets busy for everyone, and despite your desire to care for an aging loved one, it may not be the best scenario for them, especially if they are sick. They may have specific needs that must be medically addressed for them to maintain their quality of life, or you may not have the time to provide the level of care needed. You must be able to determine when their needs reach a point when you can no longer help them, and realize that a nursing home is the right place for them. People often feel as if they are abandoning their loved ones to strangers, and it makes them feel they must hold on. But, denying reality can make things worse for both you and your loved one.

How to Choose a Nursing Home

Choosing a nursing home can be an overwhelming task. Start by making a list of the things you and your loved one want from the facility. Things like a secured location, plenty of activities, a varied menu that offers high quality food, options for day trips to theaters and museums, medical care, and so on. Next, research facilities online and start narrowing down based on your list. Once you have a few places, you can contact them for visits. Ask questions about the facility and the staff, and get a good feel for how things are done. Pay attention to the residents. Their overall moods are telling. Finally, make sure the nursing home has policies and guidelines that you are comfortable with. There are some basic questions you should ask every nursing home you visit, as well, such as:

• Are residents free to make choices?
• Is the facility certified and accredited?
• What are the facility's official policies?
• What are the facility's security and safety precautions?
• What type of preventative care is offered?

While these questions are by no means exhaustive, they give families a good starting point. It's important that both the family and the senior going into care with the nursing home are comfortable with all facets of the facility. If not, then they should keep looking.

Cost of Nursing Homes in Los Angeles

L.A. is one of the most expensive cities in the nation, which means that nursing home care will also be more expensive. Although the average annual cost for nursing home care in other parts of the nation runs about $50,000, in Los Angeles, it could run upwards of $75,000 per year. That's a hefty price tag, so it benefits families to look into long-term care insurance to help cover the costs of nursing home care.

Deciding to place a beloved family member in a nursing home is not an easy decision for anyone, but that doesn't mean it's the wrong decision. It's important to consider the needs of the loved one and the time constraints family members have in their lives. If family members cannot rearrange their schedules to accommodate all of a senior's needs, then they need someone who can help them manage their daily activities. By finding the right nursing home, you can gain peace of mind knowing that your loved one is comfortable and in good hands.