Hey everyone -

Here is an article we are working on about tips to stay out of a nursing home. Currently we have five suggestions, but would really like to make this a "Top Ten" article.

What do you think?

Top Ten Ways to Stay Out of a Nursing Home

Virtually no one desires to be in a nursing home, but for many folks as they age this seems like the only possibility. You do have the ability to stay independent in your own home, but you have to be proactive and take steps while you are well to prepare for the times when you may need a little extra help.

Talk to Your Doctor – You need to think of yourself as the first step in your medical/healthcare plan. Most disease processes happen slowly and over time, so the time to see the doctor about an ailment or problem is as soon as you first detect it. It’s never too early to seek medical assistance and the earlier you approach your doctors the easier it is for them to help you.

Have a Helping Hand - Just like he song says, sometimes everyone needs a little help. You can be independent in your own home and still have someone who helps you out from time to time. While most folks have a family member or child to help them out, sometimes a neighbor is your best bet. Have a weekly check-in time to talk to your “helper” and let them know how you are doing. Make sure your “helper” has the keys to your house and alarm codes, a list of your medications, and most importantly keep them notified if you are going away on vacation or won’t be around your house. This way, they’ll know how to get in touch with you in an emergency.

Make Changes to Your Home – It’s likely that the house you are living in now may also need to make some adjustments. The house that was perfect for kids and backyard bar-b-ques may not meet your needs as you grow older in your own home. Have an assessment done by mobility professionals to find out if your house is safe. Consider adding rails to the sides of your bed and grab bars in the bathroom or shower to prevent falls. Also think about having non-slip surfaces added to the floor of your shower or even a bathing chair. Most accidents in the home happen in the bathroom and these little changes now can help you avoid accidents later.

Have a Plan for Emergencies – In the event you need EMS services, you may be unable to reach a phone to call 911. Having a personal alert system is a great way to notify the ambulance service in an emergency. Most of these services will also notify your loved ones, as well. If this is an option that is out of your budget, make sure you have a cordless phone that you can keep attached to your belt or waist while at home. Write down your prescriptions and pertinent medical information down and have that information readily available, or even better, posted to your refrigerator where it can be found in an emergency.

Stay Mobile and Safe – The single best way to stay independent in your own home is to have a way to get around your house safely. If you are experiencing mobility issues due to disease conditions like arthritis, diabetes, or COPD, a power chair or scooter can allow you to safely move around inside your own home, as well as help you when running errands like going to the store. Studies have shown adults over age 65 with limited mobility who qualify for a power chair or scooter but don’t get one are five times more likely to fall and break a hip than those who use a power chair or scooter (source: RRC, Inc., HME News, January 2006). The good news is that if you have Medicare Type B insurance, you may even be able to get your power chair or scooter at little to no cost.

For more details and suggestions, check out our free brochure about remaining independent in your own home – There’s No Place Like Home.

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