For those of us who work in this field, it is a very difficult question to answer, since the answer is too compromising. If I recommend an ELEAM, I have to be sure that they provide loving and professional care at the same time, that it is a comfortable and warm place, that they respect the interests and tastes of the residents, and that in addition to caring, they also accompany them.
There may be different reasons why an elderly person enters an ELEAM:
Because they themselves decide it (it happens to a lesser extent).
When the family cannot provide the care needed, does not receive the public social assistance required or lacks the means to hire a caregiver to come to their home permanently.
When the person requires permanent specialized care due to an illness or dependency.
Considering an ELEAM as a space and place of care and support for the elderly people around you can be a difficult time or one of family discussion. However, when the decision has already been made and the only option left on the table is institutionalization, the search for the “perfect ELEAM” begins.
Now it's my turn to answer the question: Can I recommend an ELEAM? I prefer to give some advice on what to look for or what to pay attention to.
To start, I recommend visiting several and asking a member of the team what a normal day is like and delving into routines. If conditions allow, involve the elderly person in the visits. Their opinion is the most important.
1) Documentation:
Ideally, it should have a health resolution issued by the SEREMI of health. If it has one, it should be framed and visibly displayed in the ELEAM.
It is ideal to request the internal regulations of the establishment to know the rules of coexistence, the services provided by the home, the responsibilities of the guardian, work team and the resident, among other relevant topics.
They must request the contract that stipulates the philippine pie telegram conditions for entry and exit of residents.
Check if they require a prior medical certificate. This is ideal, since in order to make an appropriate admission, the medical condition regarding physical and cognitive functionality, pathologies and current pharmacological treatment should be indicated, so if it is not required, we recommend that you do so.
2) Services and staff:
Ask about staffing, their professions, schedules and functions within ELEAM.
It is important that you have a Technical Director and request an interview with him/her.
Ask about physical, cognitive and recreational stimulation activities for older people. Consider that watching television and listening to the radio is not the only thing an older person can do. Or is that how you imagine your old age?
You can ask if they hold birthday celebrations and commemorate other significant dates. If so, ask about the possibilities for you and your family to participate.
Regarding the nutritional plan, it is advisable to ask if they have a food handler or if the menu is created by a nutritionist. In addition, it is important that the meals are adapted to the tastes and needs of the residents.
Observe the staff's manner. Do they address residents by name? Is the manner respectful and affectionate? Do they speak clearly, in an appropriate tone, and answer residents' questions?
Ask about access to the phone for calls and/or video calls, to keep communication flowing with the elderly person.
3) COVID-19 Management:
You can ask about the vaccination schedule for residents and staff.
Check the proper use of personal protective equipment such as masks, gloves, etc.
Was a proper sanitary barrier in place when you entered? Temperature must be checked and entry must be recorded, as well as proper hand hygiene with alcohol gel or soap and water in a sink must be requested before entering the ELEAM.
Ask if there have been any outbreaks and how they have been handled.
4) Infrastructure: