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Where Do I Begin?

For many, the first step is simply facing the need to make a difficult decision on another family member’s behalf. Realizing that caring for another without help or training can be stressful, challenging and even counterproductive makes finding qualified help imperative. BHCS stands ready to assist you with every level of information and aid, from sharing your decision with family members to easing the transition into the best facility. Whether that facility is one of ours or not is a decision worthy of careful examination.

How Do I Choose the Best Option?

Begin with some basic research by asking for literature, using the Internet and talking to your physician or case manager. Realize you do have choices and this is a difficult decision. BHCS can help provide you with additional resources to guide you through the process— even send someone to your home to evaluate whether long term care (LTC) services are required.

It’s important that you visit facilities personally and ascertain that there is open communication, a comfort level with the staff and the right programs for your specific situation.

Most importantly, be sure to ask questions about available programs specific to your needs. Talk with the administrators, nurses and rehab professionals. “Surveys” and statistical data won’t tell you the kind of things you can see first hand.

We are here to help with this difficult time and are familiar with the questions you may have in the process of choosing the perfect place for your loved one’s care. Feel free to talk to us about any issues or specific concerns. As experts in the field, we are more than ready to help. BHCS can even provide a unique and personalized assessment of your needs by a professional placement counselor to help in the process.

What to Expect.

Expect to find differences between facilities. It’s a common myth that they all provide pretty much the same services. Taking the time to visit and look beyond the lobby décor is vital. Differences exist between the amount of onsite physician access, staff-to-resident ratios, cleanliness, attentiveness, atmosphere, activities, programs, specialized services and rehab programs.

Expect to discover that a large percentage of people do leave and return home again. In fact, our goal at BHCS is to help people to regain as much independence as possible.

Expect to see a larger variance in age than you might think – not everyone in LTC is “elderly.” Some are simply dealing with serious illness, recuperation or rehabilitation from major injuries.

Realize that simply entering a nursing home does not remove anyone’s rights. In fact, resident and family participation in choice of care, treatment and social activities is critical to a successful outcome.

Expect to gain a better understanding of the financial requirements of LTC. We can assist you with insurance issues, payment options and other financial matters. There are options for everyone and we at BHCS are very familiar with the systems, processes and choices open to you. We will be happy to aid in evaluating your resources and help with the necessary forms.

Most of all, expect to find people at BHCS who are professionally trained yet personable and interested in answering all your questions without pressure. Our focus is in helping you or your loved one recuperate to the highest level of independence possible. Finding the perfect fit for you and your family is paramount to making the process work.

What is Long Term Care or LTC?

When an individual needs the aid of professional help in a safe supervised environment to regain or simply maximize his/her level of independence–we call this Long Term Care. It is not always permanent or necessarily very “long.” LTC is also not solely for the elderly. Berkshire Healthcare Systems (BHCS) runs homelike, comfortable LTC settings staffed with skilled professionals, continuous care, supervision, socialization help and rehabilitation programs for every level of need. LTC is peace of mind for both families and individuals for varied periods of time dependent upon recovery.

Who Needs Long Term Care?

Anyone requiring assistance with personal care or rehabilitation can benefit from LTC, be it from a postacute phase of an illness, continuing IV care, pain management, surgery recuperation, chronic illness, hospice care, memory impairment, safety concerns or any medical needs that cannot be adequately provided at home. In some cases, a short-term solution at a LTC facility maintains day-to-day management when healing time is paramount. In others, an extended stay is a logical step to relieve emotional and physical stresses as well as provide immediate access to vital medical needs. The option of coming into a BHCS facility allows a person the freedom of a safe, caring environment in which to heal, relax and regain as much strength as possible. Whether that means a few weeks after surgery or creating a full-time residence with continuing care–the emphasis at BHCS remains on assistance towards recovery.

Knowing Your Rights.

It’s important to realize that you cannot be rushed into this decision. It feels imperative, emotional and rushed because these situations usually arise unexpectedly and suddenly.

Once at an extended care facility, every resident retains all of his/her rights–including dignity, respect and the freedom to enjoy the company of friends and family.

Who Can I Ask for More Information/Guidance?

Berkshire Healthcare Systems is first and foremost a community resource for information, assistance and superior care.

Whether it’s for a community member living at home, a facility resident or someone simply in need of assistance, we are here for you. We invite you to learn more about Berkshire Healthcare through this website and individual Berkshire Healthcare facility contacts.

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