Nursing Homes near Davenport, IA

Nursing Homes in Davenport, Iowa

The idea of living in a nursing home isn't something seniors stay up late daydreaming about, but it's still an important part of life. As seniors get older, things change. At some point, they will probably need help with their daily activities, and some need more help than family members can provide. In addition to the required assistance, some seniors need medical attention on a regular basis. Unless a member of the family is a doctor or nurse, it may be more than families can handle on their own. That's why it's important for seniors and their families to discuss nursing home options early. Once everyone is on the same page about what to do, it's easier to focus on finding the right home to fit the senior's personality and preferences.

More about Davenport

Davenport sits on the border between Iowa and Illinois, and it's approximately halfway between Chicago and Des Moines. Its historical claim to fame is that the city houses the Palmer College of Chiropractic, which is where the first chiropractic adjustment took place. The city also boasts several music festivals, including the Mississippi Valley Blues festival and the Bix Beiderbecke Memorial Jazz festival. The city also has an impressive number of parks and recreational areas to keep residents active and engaged outdoors. Due to the city's proximity to the Mississippi River, it is prone to flooding. When considering nursing homes in the area, it's important to look at areas least likely to flood.

Choosing the Right Facility

Finding the right facility for your loved one is the most important part of the process. If they feel anxious about their new home, it can cause problems in your relationship with them, and it could also lead to health risks for your loved one, as well. To begin, create a list of nursing homes with the features you and your loved one want, and then schedule a time to view the homes in person. Talk to the program director to learn more about the facility and the staff, and find out whether the facility is registered with the state and in good standing with inspectors. It's also helpful to know what the patient to staff ratio is for both day and evening hours. Finally, look into the safety and prevention features of the nursing home. Even in safe neighborhoods, it's important for seniors to feel secure. If there are any concerns about the neighborhood or the home, consider other areas and other nursing homes.

Amenities and Activities

The amenities and activities available to residents of a nursing home are important. They keep the residents engaged by establishing a community of peers for them. Many elderly come to think of the other residents as a second family, and it's important that the home you choose offers social events that allow the seniors to connect on a personal level. A good nursing home offers a wide selection of options including restaurant-style dining, social and recreational activities, landscaped grounds, a beauty salon/barber shop, game room, wireless internet, library, laundry, and housekeeping. Some of the most popular nursing home activities include bingo, happy hours, crafts, movies, and dance socials.

Cost Considerations

The expense of nursing home care can be a challenge for some families, especially those who live in states with a higher cost of living. The key to overcoming this hurdle is planning early. Consider that most nursing homes cost an average of $50,000 a year, and they go up from there depending on where they're located and the amenities you choose. Most families aren't prepared for that kind of cash outflow. The good news is that you have options when it comes to paying. In addition to paying out of pocket, you can also look into long-term care insurance and federal programs such as Medicare or Medicaid. You can also speak with nursing home directors to learn more about paying for care.

Let's face it, no one is overjoyed at the idea of moving into a nursing home, and you're probably not happy about it either. But, it doesn't have to be a completely horrible experience for your loved one. In fact, many seniors report enjoying their lives more now that they live in a nursing home because they're more active, have the assistance they need, and they have a support group of peers who know exactly what they're dealing with every day. Your loved one can have that experience, too. All it takes is finding the right home to suit your loved one's personality and preferences. Once your loved one is safe and happy in their new home, you'll have peace of mind about their well-being.