Structuring Your Search for the Ideal Nursing Home

Realizing that you or a loved one needs to move into a nursing home can be stressful. Just the process of looking for the right facility can seem daunting and overwhelming. You want to make sure the facility you choose is a good place and will offer the necessary care, safety, and comfort.

When looking for a nursing home for yourself or a loved one, it may be helpful to break down your search into the following phases:

Phase 1: Prescreening and Vetting

Start by narrowing your list based on essential criteria before conducting any in-person visits.

• Define your loved one’s needs. Determine the level of care required and the necessary financial structure (Medicare, Medicaid, private pay).
• Filter your list according to ratings. Use the U.S. News and Medicare’s Nursing Home Compare rankings to eliminate any facilities with consistently low ratings or serious, recent violations.
• Review each facility’s deficiencies. Thoroughly read the state’s inspection reports. Note the frequency and severity of deficiencies, paying special attention to those related to harm or abuse.

Phase 2: In-Person Visit and Observation

Once you have a shortlist of potential facilities, schedule an in-person visit. Ideally, make one planned visit and one unannounced visit.

• Observe mealtime at the facility. This is a crucial time to assess the quality of food, the level of assistance residents receive, and the overall social environment.
• Tour resident rooms if possible. Check for cleanliness, personalization, and a comfortable temperature. Note if call lights are answered promptly.
• Interview key staff at the facility. Speak with the director of nursing, the administrator, and a few certified nursing assistants if you can. Ask specific questions about emergency protocols and staff-to-resident ratios on different shifts.

Phase 3: Final Decision and Contract Review

Before signing, ensure all logistical and legal elements are clear.

• Review the admission contract. Carefully read the small print, especially regarding involuntary discharge policies, payment expectations, and any arbitration agreements. Consider having an elder law attorney review this document.
• Conduct a trial stay (if applicable). If the resident is moving from a hospital or rehab, a short-term stay can serve as a trial run before committing to long-term residency.
• Establish a communication plan. Before moving in, formalize a schedule for care conferences and set clear expectations for how and when the family will receive updates on your loved one’s health and well-being.

Resources to Use When Choosing a Nursing Home

Several nursing homes options may be available in your area, so choosing the right one may feel overwhelming. However, in addition to U.S. News & World Report’s annual nursing home ratings report, consider other rating systems to help you make a more informed decision.

• Medicare’s Your Guide to Choosing a Nursing Home. This is a helpful booklet published by Medicare that explains what to ask, how to compare facilities, and where to find data.
• State health departments. Many states maintain databases of nursing home inspection reports and licensing status.
• Ombudsman programs. Long-term care ombudsmen advocate for residents’ rights and can suggest local nursing homes or help with complaints.
• Local aging services agencies. Nonprofits, Area Agencies on Aging, or senior resource centers can guide families in touring and evaluating options.

Choosing a nursing home is an important personal choice, and what’s best depends on each individual’s needs, goals, and financial situation. After doing your research, start visiting your top choices. If you are looking for a nursing home or assisted living facility for yourself, bring a trusted friend or family member with you to provide an objective view of the facility.

If you would like to speak with an experienced elder law attorney regarding your situation or have questions about something you have read, please do not hesitate to contact our office at 1 (800) 680-1717. We look forward to the opportunity to work with you.

Disclaimer: The information provided above is for general informational purposes only and is not legal advice.