Nursing homes that will take my father

My father also had to go to a nursing home after surgery. My condolences. This is a horrible shock - they go in to get better and come out with dementia. I'm afraid it happens more often than many realize.

Start by looking at nursing homes in his (or your) area. He'll have to start out private pay and when his money is gone he'll go on Medicaid. Whoever takes care of his money needs to keep very good records.

Unless he has nothing, starting out on private pay is good, as it's easier to get into a nursing home than it is when they are on Medicaid. Then, generally, they can stay when their money runs out and Medicaid takes over, which is likely if he lives a long time and isn't wealthy.

Again, my heartfelt sympathy. I know what you are going through.

Carol

I empathize with your father's situation and admire you for being an advocate for your father.  This is a difficult decision that requires time and effort in order to ensure that your father receives the best care and is capable of meeting the needs that arise from his two progressive illnesses.  Prior to admission your father is going to require a PRI (patient review instrument).  This assessment can be performed by a nurse in your home and is valid for a 90 day period.  This PRI will result in a score that will indicate to the nursing facility his level of needs and if the facility can appropriately accommodate him on a daily basis.  You want to make sure that the facility you are interested in will offer the appropriate programming to stimulate him cognitively while keeping him safe physically.  Some nursing homes have "Alzheimer's/dementia units" or "special care units" that will provide the specialized care for cognitive impairment.  In addition, he needs to be supported by nursing staff for assistance with basic care such as bathing, dressing and toileting.  Nursing homes also have physical/occupational therapy services that can help him maintain or enhance him physically.  Overall, as your father's needs progress the facility must be equipped to handle issues related to more skilled nursing care.  It is important that you research facilities in order to educate yourself on available options for care.  You should tour a few facilities in order to get a better understanding of what types of care they can provide your father now and over the long term.