Frequently Asked Questions
We understand you have questions about skilled nursing services. Here are a few of the questions we answer most frequently. If you have more questions please contact us – we’re here to help.
1. When should you consider moving to a skilled nursing facility?
When evaluating a senior it’s important to look at the ADL list because it will touch on points when nursing home care could be required:
- Cannot use telephone
- Unable to shop without assistance, or shop at all
- Need meals prepared and served, or cannot maintain an adequate diet
- Cannot participate in housekeeping activities
- Needs laundry done by others
- Needs travel assistance or does not travel at all
- Isn’t capable of dispensing own medication
- Incapable of handling money or making day-to-day purchases
Each resident is different and requires different levels of care. It is up to you and your loved one to decide when the time is right to transition into a nursing facility.
Does your loved one need additional care? Contact us today.
2. What personal items can be brought to the nursing home?
The rooms at Atkins are uniquely designed to provide an atmosphere reminiscent of home. Therapeutic beds, comfortable chairs, color-coordinated curtains and room accessories and ample closet and storage space are provided for the residents’ comfort. Residents and families are encouraged to individualize rooms with personal items brought from home to make rooms more cozy and home-like. Money, jewelry and other valuables, however, should not be stored in resident rooms.
3. What are the visiting hours?
Atkins does not have set visiting hours. We view this facility as the “home” of each resident. We would ask that if visiting on evenings and weekends that noise levels be kept at an appropriate level as to not disturb other residents.
4. Can residents leave with their families? Can residents stay overnight with their families?
Yes, most residents are free to come and go with their family members. We do ask that you sign your loved one in and out at the nurse’s station. Also, please make sure and give the facility prior notice so we may better support any travel. Additionally, any resident currently receiving Medicare Part A benefits is not allowed to be out of the building overnight due to Medicare guidelines, but short day trips are allowed.
5. Do I bring my family member’s medication upon admission?
No, once your family member is admitted to the facility, the facility will order and reorder all medication that is needed for your stay
6. Can food be brought into the facility?
Yes, it is permissible to bring food to residents in covered or closable containers. We do ask that particular attention be paid to dietary restrictions and allergies when bringing food to your loved one.
7. What options are there for paying for nursing home care?
Personal Resources, Medicaid, Long Term Care Insurance, Medicare/Medicare advantage plans and Medicare supplemental plans for skilled care are several options available to nursing home patients. Personnel in the Social Services department and business office are available to discuss these options and help you make the best decision regarding financial arrangements.
8. Is Atkins a smoke-free facility?
Atkins is a smoke free facility but designated smoking areas are provided for our residents that smoke. For the safety of our residents, regularly scheduled smoke breaks are planned throughout the day.