A tour shows you the lobby. These questions show you the care. Bring this list, take notes, and visit at least twice, once unannounced if you can.
Staff and care
- How many caregivers are on duty during the day, evening and overnight, and for how many residents?
- How long have your director and nursing lead been here? How often does staff turn over?
- Who manages medications, and how are errors tracked?
- What happens in a medical emergency, and which hospital do you use?
Daily life
- May we see the activity calendar and eat a meal here?
- How do you handle special diets?
- What does a typical day look like for someone with my loved one's needs?
Licensing and record
- Are you licensed by the state, and may we see your most recent inspection report?
- For nursing homes, look up the facility on Medicare's Care Compare tool, including staffing and inspection results.
Money and contracts
- What is included in the monthly rate, and what costs extra?
- How are care levels assessed, and how much notice do you give before a rate change?
- Under what circumstances could my loved one be asked to leave?
What to watch for
- Are residents engaged and well groomed, or mostly sitting alone?
- How do staff speak to residents when they think no one is watching?
- Are call lights answered promptly? Does the building smell clean?
Not sure which kind of care fits? A Grace With Care guide can talk it through with you. Tell us about your loved one or call 855-330-2200.
Sources
This guide is general information, not medical, legal or financial advice. Coverage rules change; confirm details with the program or your plan.
