Choosing A Nursing and Rehab Center

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