Nursing Homes in America

They Aren't The Same Old Folks Home of the 1950's and 1960's?

When it comes to nursing homes in America, much change has taken place since the decades of the 1950's and 1960's. There has never been a better time to be a nursing home resident. One of the most striking advances has been in medical technology.

Today, we have medical technology that simply didn't exist decades ago. This means that senior citizens are getting better medical care. Diagnostic and preventative tests and procedures are more effective and accurate. Medicines have been improved. As a whole, the world of medicine has grown by leaps and bounds in the past half a century.

Another change that has taken place is that of senior citizen rights. Nursing homes today are very careful about making sure their residents rights' are honored and respected. Of course, neglect and abuse does occur in nursing homes even today but nowhere near as often as it did decades ago.

There are more rules, regulations and laws that prevent neglect and abuse of senior citizens in nursing homes. The homes themselves are nicer, too. They have better technology which provides a more comfortable living environment.

For example, there are now emergency call buttons in the rooms and bathrooms where residents can call for help if they need to. When pressed, the buttons summon a nurse immediately. Another advancement is in entertainment.

Today's nursing homes are equipped with color televisions, often in each room. Central air conditioning has also made today's nursing homes substantially more comfortable than the old folks' homes of the past.

These days, you won't hear a nursing home referred to as an old folks' home, unless it's by someone who would be classified as one of those folks. Political correctness is on the rise and seniors are getting the respect and consideration they deserve.

Nowhere is this more evident than in today's luxurious assisted living communities, which provide senior citizens with independence yet the care they require. These communities offer lots of great amenities like swimming pools, beauty salons, fitness centers and on site shopping. They are a great choice for any senior who cannot continue to live at their own home alone but does not want to go to a nursing home.