If you have an aging loved one with advanced health care needs, they may eventually require a nursing home to tend to their daily requirements. However, it can be difficult to determine when they need specialized nursing care, which is why there are several aspects that patients must often meet before they can live in these communities. Below are some of the qualifications for seniors.

4 Factors That Qualify a Senior for Nursing Home Care

1. State Requirements

In Missouri, assisted living and residential care facility admission requirements include people who need help performing daily activities. However, people who require physical or chemical restraints or specialized nursing care that exceeds the facility's services cannot be admitted.

State requirements are important because they ensure that seniors receive the care they need. Without these guidelines, seniors may not receive the appropriate level of care and may be at risk for neglect or abuse.

2. Physical Impairment

As people age, they may experience health issues that affect their ability to perform everyday activities, such as grooming, going to the bathroom, and moving between rooms unassisted. Physical impairment can include mobility issues, chronic pain, or medical conditions that require frequent monitoring or treatment. 

It is important to get help because it can impact a senior's ability to perform daily tasks and maintain their independence. In a nursing home, seniors with physical impairments can receive specialized care to help improve their mobility and overall health.

3. Cognitive Function

Some nursing centers consider a senior's cognitive function before admitting them as a resident. Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia progressively reduce a person's ability to live independently. 

Seniors with cognitive impairment may be at risk for wandering, falls, or other accidents. In a nursing home, seniors with cognitive impairment can receive specialized care, such as memory care, to help manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life.

4. Caregiver Burnout

Caregiving can be a rewarding experience, but it can also be physically and emotionally exhausting. Caregiver burnout can impact both the caregiver and the senior. 

If a caregiver is not able to provide the appropriate level of care, the senior may not receive the support they need. In a nursing home, seniors can receive around-the-clock care from trained professionals, allowing caregivers to take a much-needed break and avoid burnout.

If your loved one meets the qualifications for nursing care, contact West Vue in West Plains, MO. This senior care facility has two locations and caters to every step of the aging process, from independent living to assisted living and nursing care. For over 40 years, their professional team has been helping with basic and specialized care to ensure seniors can live out their golden years happily. Call (417) 256-2152 to schedule a tour, and visit them online to learn more about their services.