Use this checklist to review options:
PHYSICAL ENVIRONMENT
❑ Are public areas and resident rooms clean and comfortable?
❑ Is ample parking available for visitors?
❑ Are private rooms available?
❑ Does the community have a pet?
❑ Does the community have safety features, such as handrails and grab bars?
❑ Are the exits clearly marked?
RESIDENT AND STAFF INTERACTION
❑ How many Registered Nurses (RNs), Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) and Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs) are on staff?
❑ What type of education and training do staff members have?
❑ Do all staff members undergo screenings and background checks prior to employment?
❑ How does the community handle residents who need additional care and support?
❑ Is there a care plan developed for every resident?
❑ Are care plans reviewed and updated by providers and family members?
❑ Is the interaction between residents and staff members warm and respectful?
❑ What is the staff-to-resident ratio for each level of care?
❑ Do staff members respond to residents' requests for assistance promptly?
❑ What is the staff-to-resident ratio at night and on weekends?
CERTIFICATION AND LICENSURE
❑ What levels of care does the community offer?
❑ Skilled nursing care?
❑ Short-term rehabilitation?
❑ Memory care?
❑ Is the facility Medicare and Medicaid certified?
❑ Are the home and its current administrator licensed?
FEES AND COSTS
❑ What services are included in the daily fee?
❑ What services are available for an additional fee? What are the fees?
❑ How often do rate increases occur?
DINING SERVICES
❑ Does the dining room look and smell inviting?
❑ Are there enough staff members available to assist residents during meals?
❑ Are the dining room tables, chairs and linens in good condition?
❑ Are residents allowed to invite guests for meals?
❑ Can residents select their own meal times, or are there designated meal times?
ACTIVITIES AND PROGRAMS
❑ Are activities scheduled throughout the day and evening?
❑ Are fitness classes offered?
❑ Are there dedicated spaces for resident clubs and informal gatherings?
LOCATION
❑ Is the community conveniently located for friends and family to visit?
❑ Is the community near preferred medical providers?
OVERALL IMPRESSION
❑ Does the community look and feel like a place you could call home?
Sources: www.whereyoulivematters.org, a senior living resource powered by the American Seniors Housing Association (ASHA) and www.medicare.gov. Medicare's Nursing Home Checklist