ARTICLES / General /Moving
On: Tips for Selecting... /
Other ArticlesBy Patricia O’Dea-Evans, MS, RN, LCPC, CCM
Looking Around
Although a lot of research can be done over the
phone and online, nothing can replace a first-hand
visit to a potential new home. On-site visits are
great opportunities to not only look around, but to
also chat with residents about what they like (and
don’t like) about living there. Seniors and
their loved ones should ask current residents and
staff as many questions as possible, so there are no
surprises if the older adult, in fact, decides to
move in.
When visiting a potential new home, here are some
specific things to observe:
- Is it clean and well maintained?
- Is the atmosphere warm and friendly?
- Are the units attractive?
- Does the food in the dining room look and
taste good, and are meals well balanced?
- Are activities scheduled that will interest
the senior?
An on-site visit is also a good chance to meet
the staff. Because they are responsible for
residents’ daily care, everyone should be completely
comfortable with them, and the services they
provide. When evaluating the staff, consider this:
- Is everyone friendly, caring, and
attentive?
- Do they assist with medication taking,
storage, and reminders?
- Do they provide an initial assessment of a
potential resident’s needs?
- Once someone moves in, are the resident’s
needs periodically reassessed?
- Are medical care providers available to
residents?
- How does the community keep families
informed about care?
Printable Version
