Frequently Asked Questions
If you or a loved one are considering moving into a skilled nursing facility, you likely have questions. Listed below are a few of the questions we answer most frequently. If you have further questions, please contact us. We’re here to serve you and your family.
1) When is it time to consider moving into a “skilled nursing facility”?
When evaluating a senior, it is important to look at the ADL list for an idea of when full-time care may be necessary:
- Cannot use telephone
- Unable to shop without assistance or shop at all
- Needs meals prepared and served or cannot maintain an adequate diet
- Cannot participate in housekeeping activities
- Needs laundry done by others
- Needs travel assistance or does not travel at all
- Isn’t capable of dispensing own medication
- Incapable of handling money or making day-to-day purchases
2) What personal items can be brought to the nursing home?
Our facility’s rooms are designed to provide an atmosphere reminiscent of home. Therapeutic beds, comfortable chairs, color-coordinated curtains and room accessories and ample closet and storage space are provided for the residents’ comfort. We encourage residents to bring any items from home to personalize this space and make it feel more like home. We do suggest, however, that residents do not store valuables like money and jewelry in their rooms.
3) What are the visiting hours?
Because we are dedicated to creating an inviting, home-like environment for our residents, we do not have set visiting hours. We never want to stand in the way of our residents visiting with loved ones. We would ask that if visiting on evening and weekends that noise levels be kept at an appropriate level.
4) Can residents leave with their families? Can residents stay overnight with their families?
Yes, most residents are free to come and go with their family members. We do ask that you sign your loved one in and out at the nurse’s station. Also, please make sure and give the facility as much advanced notice as possible so we may better support in any travel. Residents that are currently receiving Medicare Part A benefits is allowed to be out of the building overnight due to government regulation.
5) How will I take my family member to doctor visits?
We provide transportation to and from medical appointments. We do ask for a 7 day notice if you or your family member makes the appointments so proper transportation can be arranged.
6) Do I bring my family member’s medication upon admission?
No, once your family member is admitted to the facility, the facility will order and reorder all medication that is needed.
7) Can food be brought into the facility?
Yes, it is permissible to bring food to residents in covered or closable containers. We do ask that particular attention be paid to dietary restrictions and allergies when bringing food to your loved one.
8) What are my payment options?
Personal resources, Medicaid, Long Term Care Insurance, Medicare/Medicare advantage plans and Medicare supplemental plans for skilled care are several options available to nursing home patients. Personnel in the Social Services department and business office are available to discuss these options with you to assist you in choosing your best financial option.
9) Is Heather Manor a smoke-free facility?
Heather Manor is a smoke free facility but designated smoking areas are provided for residents that smoke. For the safety of our residents, regularly scheduled smoke breaks are planned throughout the day.