Family members of Ohioans who live in nursing homes are generally satisfied with the care and services their loved ones receive there, according to the results of the 2010 Nursing Home Family Satisfaction Survey, released earlier this month by the Ohio Department of Aging.

The statewide average satisfaction score for facilities was 87.93 (out of a possible 100); 25 facilities scored 95.7 or better, including the Little Sisters of the Poor in Oregon, which earned  an overall score of 97.

The satisfaction ratings and other information about nursing homes in the state are available on the Ohio Long-term Care Consumer Guide at www.ltcohio.org.

“Making important choices about where a loved one receives care should start with information, and who better to provide that information than other families who have made similar decisions,” said Barb Madden-Petering, interim director of the department. “The satisfaction ratings, along with other information about facilities available in the Long-term Care Consumer Guide, are valuable tools to help families and individuals access choice, remain independent and enjoy a high quality of life.”

The family satisfaction survey was conducted between June and December 2010 by the Scripps Gerontology Center of Miami University in Oxford, Ohio, on behalf of the Ohio Department of Aging. Nearly 30,000 family members and 931 facilities participated. Of the 711 participating facilities with statistically significant results, 375 scored above the state average, earning them an additional “quality point” in a reimbursement formula used by the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services. Survey costs are supported by a fee charged to nursing homes by the state.

“I am very pleased that Ohio’s nursing homes are using the information provided in this and similar surveys to improve the care and services they are providing for their consumers,” added Beverley Laubert, the State Long-term Care Ombudsman, whose office is housed within the department and who oversaw the survey. “Working together with facilities, residents, residents’ families and advocates, we are transforming the state’s long-term care system into one in which consumers can expect excellence and person-centered care.”

The survey asked family members their opinions on activities, administration, admission, choices, direct care and nursing, laundry, meals and dining, social services, therapy and general satisfaction. Researchers identified two key questions that sum up the respondent’s perception of the home: “Overall, do you like this facility?” and “Would you recommend this facility to a family member or friend?” Sixteen facilities scored 100 on both questions.

The most recent family satisfaction data complements 2009 resident satisfaction survey results on the site. The department plans to survey resident satisfaction again in 2011.

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