What questions should you ask when visiting a care home?

According to research from the National Institute on Aging, a thorough visit and assessment are crucial steps in finding the right long-term care facility [1]. As an expert in senior care, this guide provides a comprehensive checklist detailing what questions should you ask when visiting a care home to ensure all critical areas are explored with confidence and authority.

Quick Summary

Ensure the highest quality of care for a loved one by preparing a detailed list of questions covering staffing, medical care, cleanliness, activities, and costs before visiting a care home.

Key Points

• Staffing Ratios: A high staff-to-resident ratio is vital for ensuring personalized and timely care [1, 4].

• Clear Financials: Request a complete breakdown of all costs to avoid unexpected fees [1, 4].

• Medical Competence: Confirm that the facility has qualified staff and clear procedures for handling medical needs and emergencies [1, 2, 4].

• Engaging Activities: Look for a rich and varied activities program that caters to different interests and abilities [1, 2, 4].

• Environment and Safety: Observe the home's cleanliness, security measures, and the quality of living spaces during your visit [1, 2, 3, 4].

• Open Communication: Clarify policies regarding family involvement, communication updates, and visitor access [1, 4].

Your Essential Checklist for Visiting a Care Home

Embarking on the journey to find a care home for a loved one is a significant and often emotional process [1]. Without a clear plan, it can be overwhelming to know what to look for and what to ask. Having a structured list of questions ensures you cover all bases, from the quality of medical care to the daily social environment. This guide breaks down the most important questions into key categories, empowering you to make an informed decision with confidence.

Questions About Staffing and Resident Care

Staff are the heart of any care home, and their qualifications, consistency, and compassion are paramount to a resident's quality of life [1, 4]. High staff-to-resident ratios and low turnover are positive indicators of a stable and well-supported environment.

Staff-to-Resident Ratio and Training

• What is the staff-to-resident ratio during the day, at night, and on weekends? [1]
• What is the staff turnover rate? A high turnover can indicate a poor working environment and a lack of consistency in care [4].
• What kind of training and qualifications do the caregiving and nursing staff have? Is there specialized training for conditions like dementia or advanced medical needs? [1, 2, 4]
• Is a registered nurse on-site 24/7, or only on call? [1, 4]

Medical and Health Provisions

• What medical services are available on-site? How are medications managed and administered? [1, 3, 4]
• How does the home handle medical emergencies? What is the procedure if a resident needs to be hospitalized? [1, 4]
• How frequently do doctors visit the facility? Can residents keep their own doctors? [1]
• How is the care plan developed and personalized for each resident? How often is it reviewed and updated? [1, 4]
• Are mental and behavioral health services, such as counseling, available? [1]

Questions About the Environment and Facilities

The physical setting of the care home plays a major role in a resident’s comfort and well-being. A clean, safe, and pleasant environment is fundamental [1, 4].

Cleanliness, Safety, and Security

• Is the facility clean and free of strong, unpleasant odors? Does it feel well-maintained? [1, 3]
• What safety and security measures are in place? Are there secure outdoor areas, especially for residents with memory impairments? [1, 2, 4]
• What are the procedures for handling emergencies like fires or power outages? [1, 4]
• How often are rooms and common areas cleaned? What is the laundry service like? [1]

Living Spaces and Amenities

• What types of rooms are available (private, semi-private)? Can residents bring personal furniture and belongings? [1, 4]
• Are there common areas for residents and families to gather? Is there a private space for visits? [1]
• Are outdoor spaces accessible and safe for residents? Is there sun protection? [1, 2]
• What other amenities are available, such as a salon, library, or gift shop? [1]

Questions About Daily Life and Social Engagement

A high quality of life involves more than just good medical care; it includes social interaction, nutritious food, and engaging activities [1, 2, 4].

Dining and Nutrition

• What is the menu like, and how often does it change? Can you see a recent menu? [1]
• Can the home accommodate special dietary needs, restrictions, or preferences? [1, 4]
• Are meals prepared fresh on-site? Can you sample a meal? [1, 4]
• What is the dining environment like? Is it sociable and pleasant? [1]
• How do you ensure residents who need assistance with eating receive it promptly and with dignity? [1]

Activities and Community Life

• What types of daily activities are offered? Is there an activities calendar you can review? [1, 4]
• Are activities tailored to individual interests and abilities? What is available for residents who prefer quieter activities or are confined to their rooms? [1, 2, 4]
• How does the home encourage social interaction among residents? [1]
• Can residents participate in religious services or celebrations of their choice? [1]
• Does the facility organize outings or trips? [1, 4]

Questions About Financials and Policies

Understanding the financial obligations and the home’s policies is crucial to avoid unexpected costs and plan for the future [1, 4].

Costs and Fees

• What is included in the base fee, and what costs extra? Request a detailed breakdown of all potential charges [1, 4].
• How and when do fees increase? What is the policy if a resident's financial situation changes? [1, 4]
• What is the billing process, and who should be contacted with billing questions? [1]

Transparency and Communication

• Are family members encouraged to participate in care planning? How often and how are updates on a resident's condition communicated? [1, 4]
• What is the policy for family and visitors? Are there any restrictions on visiting hours? [1, 4]
• How does the home handle concerns or complaints from residents or families? [1]
• Can you see the latest inspection report from the relevant regulatory body? [1] The National Institute on Aging provides information and resources on what to look for when choosing a facility [1].

Comparison Table: Evaluating Key Aspects

Feature	Care Home A	Care Home B	Your Priorities
Staff-to-Resident Ratio	Varies by shift	Consistent 1:X	Low ratio for personalized care
RN On-site	Yes, 24/7	Only during day	24/7 access to medical staff
Resident Personalization	Limited	Encouraged	Bring familiar furniture and decor
Meals	Standard menu	Flexible, tailored meals	Accommodates dietary restrictions
Activities	Group events	Individualized and group	Wide variety, available weekends
Secure Outdoor Space	Yes	Yes, limited access	Easily accessible and safe
Visitor Policy	Restricted hours	Flexible, family-focused	Open and welcoming

The Final Assessment: Trust Your Instincts

After compiling your list of questions and talking with staff, it is essential to observe the environment closely during your tour [1]. Do residents appear content and engaged? Is the atmosphere welcoming and warm? Pay attention to how staff interact with residents [1]. A second, unannounced visit at a different time of day can offer a more candid view of the home's operational reality [1]. Combining a meticulous checklist with your personal observations will lead you to the most compassionate and appropriate care home for your loved one.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most important factor to consider when choosing a care home?

While many factors are important, the most critical is the quality of care, which is heavily influenced by the staff. Investigate the staff-to-resident ratio, training, and turnover rate to assess the consistency and quality of care your loved one will receive [1, 4].

How can I assess the quality of staff during a visit?

Observe how staff interact with residents and each other. Look for signs of warmth, respect, and attentiveness. Consider asking a long-term resident about their experience with the staff and care team [1].

What questions should you ask when visiting a care home about their security?

Ask about security measures, emergency protocols, and how the facility prevents wandering, particularly if the resident has memory issues. Inquire about background checks for staff and visitor sign-in procedures [1, 2, 4].

Should I visit more than once?

Yes, it is highly recommended to make at least two visits. Schedule one official tour and one unannounced visit at a different time of day, possibly during a meal or activity, to see a more candid view of the home's daily routine [1].

What financial questions should you ask when visiting a care home?

Be sure to ask for a detailed list of all fees, what is included in the base rate, how and when rates can increase, and what happens if a resident's financial situation changes [1, 4].

How do I evaluate the food and dining experience?

Ask to see a menu and if you can sample a meal. Observe the dining environment and note if residents are enjoying their food and socializing. Discuss how dietary needs and preferences are accommodated [1, 4].

What questions are important for residents with dementia?

If your loved one has dementia, ask about staff training for memory care, the use of non-medication-based behavioral approaches, and the security and safety features of the unit. Also, ask about special activities tailored for those with cognitive impairments [1, 2].