Here are some important issues to consider when choosing a facility and/or services to best suit your needs or those of a relative:

Health and Personal Care

• Does the facility or agency offer the services you need and want?
• What is the payment policy?
• What is included in the daily or monthly rate?
• What services are available at an extra charge?
• What other medical services are readily available?
• What happens if additional assistance is needed? Will you have to move, or can the facility/agency provide the necessary care where you live?
• Is transportation to off-site appointments arranged and paid for by the provider?
• Do residents use their own physician, or is there an on-staff medical director?
• If a resident is hospitalized, will the bed be held until he/she returns?
• What are the facility policies on advance directives, "do not resuscitate" orders, physical restraints and chemical sedation?
• Are residents who need personal assistance clean, well-groomed and appropriately dressed?
• What is the ratio of staff to residents?
• What arrangements are there for residents to receive primary and preventive health services, including but not limited to annual physicals, immunizations and special screenings?
• How are medical emergencies handled?

Facility

• Does the facility have a current state license? Ask to see the most recent licensure report.
• Is the nursing facility/home Medicare or Medicaid certified?
• Are there activity rooms and lounge areas for residents to use?
• What are the choices in room accommodations?
• Is the overall facility clean, odor-free, well-maintained, cheerful and safe?
• Are exits clearly marked and not locked on the inside?
• Do doors have alarm systems?
• Do bedrooms have adequate privacy and plenty of room to move?
• What personal belongings may be brought into the facility?
• Does the facility have pets?

Family Visits

• Will the location make it easy for family and friends to visit?
• What are the visiting provisions? Is there a private area for visits?
• Can family members have occasional meals with their relatives at the facility? Is there a private area for such meals?
• Does the staff seem friendly, caring and accommodating to residents and visitors?

Resident Activities

• Is the residents’ bill of rights posted and a copy available for you to review?
• Are there satisfaction surveys or other ways for residents and their families or visitors to provide feedback regarding the quality of care and other matters?
• Is there an active residents’ council? Is there a family council?
• How are residents and their families involved in decisions that affect them?
• Are the physical, intellectual, social and spiritual needs of residents being met?
• What religious activities are offered?
• Are special events held at the facility?
• Are special excursions planned for those able to take advantage of them?
• Do all residents have access to the outdoors?
• Do volunteers from the community assist with residents’ recreational activities?