Factors to consider in nursing home placement.
Nursing home placement is a difficult decision for all involved, and there are several important reasons to pursue alternatives, if at all possible. The principles of maximizing function and identifying services to support patients in an independent living environment are a high priority for the elderly and the physicians caring for them. Many techniques and resources are available to physicians to help fulfill this role. When alternatives are no longer feasible and nursing home placement is indicated, the physician can provide a variety of types of support, information, and guidance to patients and their caregivers.
von Sternberg
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Department of Family Practice and Community Health, University of Minnesota Medical School.
D000368:Aged; D003376:Counseling; D005190:Family; D006304:Health Status; D006801:Humans; D009735:Nursing Homes / Q000191:economics*; D010343:Patient Admission; D010819:Physician's Role