The following questions will help you select nursing home care for older adults. Remember, there is no such thing as a “stupid question”. All questions are important and you have a right to information about service providers.
Ask to see a copy of the most recent survey by the Department of Health Services. How many deficiencies were noted? What were they?
Is the facility Medicare certified? How many beds are Medicare certified? Will your family member have to move to a different bed to receive Medicare services?
Are there separate units for people with special care needs such as dementia or are all residents mixed in one area? Is there a secure area for people with dementia? Is palliative care available? Are snacks available and encouraged for those who have difficulty eating meals?
Does the facility participate in the Arizona Long Term Care System (ALTCS)?
What is the daily base fee and what services incur additional costs? Is there an itemized list of services? Under what conditions might fees increase? How much notice will be given? What is the refund policy? What costs continue if the older adult must be hospitalized?
Are there adequate caregivers to meet the care needs of residents? What training is required of staff? How are caregivers screened? How long have they been at the facility?
Do caregivers ask permission before entering a resident’s room?
Are residents addressed respectfully and by appropriate names?
Are residents appropriately dressed and groomed for season and time of day?
Are residents cheerful and able to talk freely with you?
Is there meaningful activity appropriate to resident functional level?
Can residents decorate their own rooms? How are roommates selected?
Ask to see a menu. Can the facility accommodate special dietary needs? Is there a choice of food at each meal? Do residents participate in menu planning if desired? Is there sufficient assistance for residents who need help eating and drinking?
Are visitors welcome at any time? Is there a private place for family visits?
Are visitors monitored or screened in any way?
The following website may be useful for information on surveys, quality measures, staff ratios, total capacity and ownership: www.medicare.gov