When a person's care can best be provided for in a health care setting, family members may need to "shop around" for the best options.

We encourage family members to ask themselves:

• Do the residents look happy?
• Do the staff look friendly and cheerful?
• Does the food smell and look appetizing?
• What daily activities are planned?

What you should look for:

• Facility Medicare and Medicaid Certification. Ask to see their most recent state survey.
• Do Family and residents participate in the plan of care?
• Are a resident's dignity and individuality maintained?
• Are good nutritious meals served in a pleasant surrounding?
• Are residents able to pursue hobbies and other interests?
• Are residents able to participate in meaningful spiritual programs of worship?

Easing the trauma of moving:
We have all experienced the challenges in moving and having our lives in disarray. Moving into a nursing facility can be a traumatic experience for residents and family members. The stress of the move can be eased by:

• Visiting the facility with the resident prior to admission.
• Making the resident's room look more like home by bringing in a favorite chair, pictures, television, radio, or hobby items.
• Maintaining frequent contact with the resident.
• Setting up a "Resident Trust Account" in the business office. This allows the resident to deposit and withdraw money as needed.

If you are interested in finding out more about the Bethel Community or taking a tour, please fill out our interest survey so one of the Bethel Community staff may be able to get ahold of you.