Try to meet and compare notes with the family members of other residents. If the nursing home has a newsletter, ask to be put on the mailing list. Poor dental care can often be the source of malnutrition and other problems with the quality of care the person is receiving. Ask the resident what he likes and dislikes about the facility and the care he receives. Ask specifically about the quality and quantity of food provided, whether he is happy with the bathing arrangements, receives medications on time, and is treated with respect.
Seniors are often reluctant to complain to nurses or other staff.
But they may share a concern with you and will likely be relieved if you offer to speak up on their behalf. Nursing home residents often take more than five different medications. At each visit, find out if there have been drugs added or removed from the senior s medication regime. By all means, consult a pharmacist or the resident s physician if you have questions or concerns about side effects, overmedication or any other medication issues. Try to participate in these meetings, send someone to represent you, or at least discuss your concerns with the administrator beforehand.