Late last month we shared information on New York’s performance in a national Nursing Home Report Card. A non-profit organization compiled the list using a mountain of government data related to staffing ratios, inspection results, and more. Sadly, New York did not come out of the examination looking that great. In fact, the overall state nursing home care was given a grade of F and listed as one of the worst places for long-term care in the country.
Importantly, this condemnation of the state’s general care does not mean that every facility in New York is substandard. There are many very high quality facilities that work diligently to meet the needs of all New York seniors who need assistance on a daily basis.
However, the report is a reminder that there are vast differences in quality between homes. Simply picking any facility will not due. Those who want to guarantee quality support for elder loved ones need to take time to investigate options and make educated choices. Finances often play a role in available options, and so families are encouraged to explore long-term care insurance and similar strategies to ensure resources will be available for this care down the road.