If you or a loved one is having troubles recovering from a health problem or an accident, many people find that a nursing home is a safe place that offers patients the medical care they require while they are recuperating and regaining their strength and health before they are able to be sent back home.

Here are 3 tips to help you find a nursing home in Hawaii that is right for you and your family.

Get Recommendations from People You Trust

If you have never had to make the decision to use a nursing home before, it can be difficult to decide what facility is right for you and your family. Do not be afraid to ask friends, colleagues and the people you trust in the medical community for their opinions and recommendations. Doctors and hospital discharge staff are well positioned to give you advice on what should be taken under consideration for a short-term or long-term nursing home stay.

Proximity to Home

Many people prefer to stay in a nursing home that is relatively close to their home. This makes it easier for family and friends to stop in and visit them while they are recovering from their illness or accident. Before making a final decision on what Hawaii-based nursing home to use for recovery, it is always a good idea to tour a number of them first. If you have any questions about their facility or care services the Admission staff member that is giving the tour should be able to answer them for you. While you are there, do not forget to confirm the nursing home has all of their required licenses and certifications, it meets safety standards and has an emergency evacuation plan in place for the safety of residents.

Caring and Skilled Staff Members

You always want to be sure that you or your loved one is getting the best care available when they are at a nursing home. The best way to get a feel for the employees of the nursing home is by talking with them directly. A happy and competent staff member will be happy to answer any questions you have about their employment there, what they enjoy most about their job and how they feel that residents are treated during their stay there. If you get the chance, you might also want to strike up a conversation with one or more of the current residents and ask them about their experience there. Do doctors frequently visit with residents for checkups? Are dental and vision issues addressed quickly? If they call for assistance, are their needs tended to quickly? If the residents and staff members both give positive feedback about their experiences there, the chances are good that the nursing home you are considering is a solid choice.

If you are not in a huge hurry for placement, you should have plenty of time to tour and evaluate all of the nursing home options available to you in Hawaii. To make the right decision for you and your family, always make sure to ask the right questions and take everything under consideration.