Choosing the right skilled nursing facility for yourself or a loved one is a critical decision that requires careful research and thoughtful questions. With varying levels of care, staff expertise, and facility amenities, knowing what to ask can help you find the best fit for long-term comfort and well-being. In this post, we’ll cover the top questions you should ask to ensure you’re selecting the best nursing home that meets your needs and expectations.
Here is a breakdown of common questions people ask about skilled nursing facilities:
Individualized Care Plans
- Does the facility have a process for developing and regularly reviewing individualized care plans that address each resident’s unique needs?
- How often are care plans re-evaluated as a resident’s needs change?
Staffing
- What is the staff-to-resident ratio, and how does it vary during different shifts (day, night, and weekends?)
- How does the facility hire, train, and review staff members?
- What is the staff turnover rate?
Medical Care
- Who is the doctor that will be assigned to me or my loved one? Can I ask for a different one?
- How are medical issues and emergencies handled?
- How are residents’ nutritional needs met, including dietary restrictions and preferences?
- Are loved ones updated when a resident’s physical or emotional condition changes significantly?
Rehabilitation
- Does the facility offer intensive rehabilitative treatment?
- How many times a day and week is therapy?
- Which type of therapy services are available?
- What types of rehabilitation equipment are available?
Activities and Engagement
- What types of activities and programs are available to residents?
- Does the facility provide opportunities for residents to participate in meaningful activities and maintain their independence?
Dementia Care
- Does the facility have specialized training for staff to support residents living with dementia?
Safety and Environment
- What safety measures are in place to prevent falls and other accidents?
- Does the facility have an emergency evacuation plan and conduct regular fire drills?
- How often does staff check on residents during the day and night?
- Are residents’ rooms and bathrooms cleaned and maintained regularly?
- Does the facility have a comfortable, home-like environment?
Infection Control
- What are the facility’s policies and procedures for preventing and controlling infections, including COVID-19?
Financial Considerations
- What services are included in the basic rate, and which cost extra?
- What are the facility’s fees and charges?
- Is the facility Medicare and/or Medicaid certified?
- Will the facility provide a written copy of its policies and fee schedules?
Other Questions to Consider
- What are the visiting hours?
- Are there any resident policies that must be followed?
- What is the facility’s policy on pets?
- What is the facility’s policy on pastoral care?
- What is the facility’s policy on end-of-life care?
To help you find the right facility, consider these additional tips
- Visit multiple facilities: don’t rely on just one visit or one source of information.
- Take a copy of the Medicare Nursing Home Checklist: the Medicare website provides a checklist to help you evaluate facilities.
- Talk to current residents and their families: if possible, ask for opportunities to speak with residents and their families to get a better understanding of the facility’s culture and care.
- Check online reviews and ratings: websites like Google, Yelp, Health US News, and Aging Care can provide valuable insights into the quality of care at different facilities.
If you have specific questions about your stay at a SNF, don’t hesitate to reach out to our admissions office for personalized guidance. They can be reached at 714-842-5551.
Sources:
[1] https://www.medicare.gov/publications/12130nursing-home-checklist508.pdf
[2] https://blog.rehabselect.net/30-questions-to-ask-a-skilled-nursing-facility
[3]https://health.usnews.com/best-nursing-homes/articles/how-to-choose-a-nursing-home
[4]https://mirasolgreenhousehomes.org/blog/10-considerations-when-selecting-a-skilled-nursing-facility/
[6]https://www.quora.com/What-are-some-important-questions-to-ask-when-considering-a-nursinghome-for-an-elderly-relative
[8]https://www.agingcare.com/questions/rehab-at-nursing-home-what-kind-of-questions-should-i-be-asking-464977.htm