Nursing Home Resources
Long Term Care Options Counseling
The goal of this program is to assist individuals in need of long term care services to make informed choices of *setting and services, *resources to help pay for supports and services, *referrals to experts in the individual’s particular disability as needed, and *assistance in connecting with appropriate resources. It is regardless of the consumer’s income or insurance and can take place in the hospital, rehab, nursing facility or community setting.
Eligibility:
- Any person in the Merrimack Valley regardless of age is eligible
Nursing Home Screening
The decision to place a family member in a nursing home is one of the most difficult issues faced by family members. The decision is often made during a crisis, or by family members who may not be familiar with the wide range of home and community based services available. Home Care Nurses are available to assess a situation and provide consult and support before a decision is made.
For those elders who receive Mass Health benefits, the state of Massachusetts requires a nursing home screening for anyone seeking payment from Mass Health for nursing home care. This screening is provided free of charge.
For those individuals who are paying privately for nursing home care a screening is not mandatory, but can assist an elder and family contemplating placement in a facility. The screening process helps s to educate the individual on admission criteria, and is an opportunity to learn what community care alternatives may be available. Recommendations made during the screening process are not binding. All nursing home screenings are conducted by a Registered Nurse licensed in Massachusetts.
The Nursing Home Ombudsman Program
The Ombudsman Program provides advocacy and support to residents in long term care facilities. As trained and certified volunteers, ombudsman visit residents on a regular basis to resolve problems and concerns, and serve as a link between family members, residents and nursing facility staff and administration. For more information about the ombudsman program or to volunteer, contact the Age Information Department at 1-800-892-0890.
Community Choice Program
This program offers elders who are eligible for nursing home care, the choice of receiving their care at home, which can delay or prevent imminent placement in a long-term care facility. Elders must be 60 years of age or older, recipients of Mass Health, and at imminent risk of nursing home placement.