MEDICAL CARE

• How does the home assure regular medical attention?  How often do physicians visit?
• Is there on-site physical and occupational therapy?
• Are there regular nursing in-services and educational programs for staff?
• What is the turnover rate for nurses and nursing assistants?
• What is the staff to resident ratio?

OUTSIDE GROUNDS and OVERALL ENVIRONMENT:

• Are the grounds well lit?
• Is staff present when residents are outside?
• Are special considerations taken in the design of outside areas for residents with memory loss or wandering issues?
• Are exits clearly marked?
• Is there someone at the front entrance to greet you and sign in visitors?
• Is there ample parking space for visitors?
• Is the facility on a bus-line?

INTERIOR SPACE AND ROOMS:

• Are rooms clean and cheerful?
• Is there a urine smell throughout the building?
• Are rooms well lit?
• Do rooms have accessible call bells?
• In shared rooms does each resident have private space, room for individual belongings and space for visitors?
• Does the facility or family furnish the room?
• How are room changes and roommate concerns addressed?

COMMUNITY LIVING SPACE:

• Do residents have access to common areas throughout the building?
• Are resident's limited to the common areas on their wing or floor?
• Can families reserve rooms for private parties or meetings?

DINING:

• How are the dining rooms staffed?
• Are snacks available upon request?
• Can families be present during meal times? Can they purchase meals?
• Are residents permitted to have food/snacks in their rooms?
• Is there a set mealtime, or a range of meal hours?
• Are seating arrangements flexible? Are resident's assigned a placement?

ACTIVITIES:

• How is the therapeutic recreational department staffed?  Are community volunteers encouraged?
• Where are the majority of activities held?
• Are activities tailored to different resident groups?
• Are there activities outside the facility? Is there an additional cost?
• Are there structured activities on weekends and evenings?
• Are residents personally encouraged to participate in activities?
• Are there established visiting hours?
• How are activities broadcast to residents?

RESIDENT SELF-DETERMINATION:

• Does the facility have an active resident and family council? Do facility staff or volunteers facilitate these groups?
• Are there support groups sponsored by outside agencies such as the Alzheimer's Association, Stroke, Parkinson's or Multiple Sclerosis organizations?
• Are residents encouraged to participate in developing their care plan?
• Is there someone on staff to address residents' concerns or complaints?
• How are discharge plans developed for residents returning to the community?

RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION:

• Are various religious services held?
• Is there a Chaplain/Rabbi on staff?

OVERALL IMPRESSIONS OF THE HOME:




THINGS I WANT MORE INFORMATION ABOUT:




Families considering a specific nursing or assisted living facility should review the facility's most recent inspection survey.  Information concerning facility complaints can be obtained from the State Department of Health and Long-term care licensing division.