Before you approach a Nursing Home it is really helpful to clearly identify your family members care needs- physical, emotional and spiritual and make a list in order of priority, take your list with you when you go to talk to the nursing home staff. There are some basic things you should check when selecting a Nursing home: Does the home have a homelike environment? Do the staff seem happy, attentive and well trained? Do you feel comfortable when you first enter the home? Does the Director of Nursing give you an air of authority and confidence? What additional activities does the Nursing Home provide, for instance are their excursions, recreational activities? Does the home provide palliative care How much choice is available to residents in daily life Are residents and their families encouraged to have input into their care If you or your family member want to make a complaint, is there a system in place Has the Home been though the accreditation process How often does a staff member check on a resident's whereabouts and well-being? Daily Life in the Facility When looking at a facility's activities, consider your loved one's preferences and capabilities. Some people enjoy group activities such as bingo, word games, card games, crafts, etc., even discussions of current events. Others prefer to enjoy their activities privately ... they aren't generally "joiners," preferring instead to read or watch TV. Are the following services available? Well appointed hair salon Laundry Transportation for non-medical appointments Meals Before selecting a nursing home, join the residents for a meal, if possible. How does the food taste? Are residents offered a choice of foods at each meal? How often does the menu change? If your loved one has special dietary needs, how will they be accommodated? Can your loved one ask to have a tray delivered to their room Is the dining area pleasant? Is the food attractive and nutritious? Does the staff help residents get to the dining room if needed? Does the staff help residents eat if needed? Other Residents Do other residents appear happy and relaxed? Are they well-groomed? Are their clothes clean? Are they dressed appropriately for the time of day and room temperature? The Nursing Home Facility Bedroom/Living Space Is there an emergency call button near each bed? Is the bedroom/living space big enough? Is it well-lighted? Is it clean and pleasant? Can residents bring in personal belongings? furniture? a TV? Is there a private bathroom? If yes, is there a call button in the bathroom? Are there grab bars in the shower? next to the toilet? Is the bathroom wheelchair-accessible? Are the living quarters private or shared? Exterior Is the building's exterior well-maintained? Is there a pleasant outdoor area? Are residents encouraged to use it? Is it accessible to wheelchairs, with plenty of benches and shade? TIP: Don't judge a facility based solely on its looks. However, a poorly-maintained facility may indicate a lack of adequate funds and potentially inadequate care of residents. Interior Is the interior homelike and well maintained? Is the temperature comfortable? Is the noise level acceptable? Do you see personal, home-like touches? Is it well-lighted? Does it have good natural light?