Provider Services offers this checklist to heighten your awareness of what to look for as you assess various nursing homes. If possible, both the family and person being placed should be involved in the decision-making process.

The Facility

• Are there handrails along the walls?
  
• Are the doorways wheelchair-accessible?
  
• Is the floor kept dry and free of litter?
  
• In case of fire, can the facility be easily evacuated?
  
• Is the front entrance pleasant and free of debris?
  
• Does the facility appear clean and free of odors?
  
• Are heating and cooling adequate?

Staff and Care

• Is the atmosphere pleasant?
  
• Do staff seem to genuinely enjoy working with the Residents?
  
• Do staff appear to care and respect the Residents?
  
• Do staff seem interested in speaking to visitors and Residents?
  
• Are Residents clean and adequately dressed?
  
• Are special diets available?
  
• Are your questions answered frankly, clearly and in sufficient depth?
  
• Are planned social and recreational activities posted and available?
  
• Do the listed activities seem interesting and appropriate?
  
• Are religious services held weekly?

Administration

• Is the facility in good standing with the state inspectors?
  
• Are fees competitive?
  
• Is the fee structure reasonable and easy to understand?
  
• Does the institution readily reveal which services are covered in the quoted fee and which are extra?
  
• Is Medicaid accepted?
  
• Is Medicare accepted?
  
• Is transportation of patients provided?
  
• Does a Resident advisory council exist?
  
• Are visiting hours reasonable?
  
• Are rehabilitative services (speech, physical and occupational therapy) available?
  
• Are social work services available?