The 6-Step Decision Process
Finding the right senior care facility takes time and careful research. Following a structured process helps you stay organized, compare options fairly, and feel confident in your final choice.
Assess Care Needs
Document current and anticipated care requirements, medical conditions, and personal preferences with input from your loved one's physician.
Set Your Budget
Determine available resources, explore payment options (Medicare, Medicaid, long-term care insurance), and understand what costs may increase over time.
Research Options
Use AssistedFinder to compare facilities, read reviews, and narrow your list to 3–5 candidates that match your criteria.
Schedule Tours
Visit your top choices multiple times and at different times of day to get an accurate picture of daily life at each community.
Evaluate & Compare
Use a consistent evaluation checklist to compare facilities objectively across all criteria — staff, environment, care services, and costs.
Make Your Decision
Trust your instincts, involve your loved one in the decision, and plan the transition carefully to ensure a smooth move-in.
Key Evaluation Criteria
Use these criteria when touring facilities to ensure you're making an informed, consistent comparison across all your candidates.
Licensing & Accreditation
Verify state licensing, inspection history, and any accreditations from recognized healthcare organizations.
- Current state license displayed
- Clean inspection record
- Staff certifications up to date
- Medicare/Medicaid certified if needed
Staff Quality & Ratios
Assess staff qualifications, training programs, and resident-to-staff ratios during different shifts.
- Staff-to-resident ratio (aim for 1:5 or better)
- RN or LVN on-site 24/7
- Ongoing training programs
- Low staff turnover rates
Environment & Safety
Evaluate the physical environment, cleanliness, safety features, and accessibility accommodations.
- Clean, odor-free environment
- Handrails and emergency call systems
- Secure entry/exit for memory care
- Well-maintained outdoor spaces
Care Services
Understand available care levels, medication management, and how care plans are personalized.
- Individualized care plans
- Medication management protocols
- Physical/occupational therapy access
- Memory care programming if needed
Quality of Life
Observe resident engagement, activity programs, dining experience, and overall community atmosphere.
- Varied daily activities
- Nutritious meal options
- Social engagement opportunities
- Family involvement welcomed
Costs & Contracts
Understand all costs, what's included, payment options, and contract terms clearly before committing.
- Transparent pricing structure
- Clear contract terms
- Refund policy understood
- Payment assistance options known
Facility Visit Checklist
Make the most of your facility tours with this comprehensive checklist. We recommend visiting each shortlisted facility at least twice — including once during meal service or evening hours.
Warning Signs to Watch For
Trust your instincts. These red flags may indicate deeper problems with a facility's care quality, staffing, or management. If you notice several of these during a visit, look elsewhere.
Essential Questions to Ask
Come prepared to each facility tour with specific questions. The answers — and how willingly the staff answer them — will tell you a great deal about the community.
About Care & Staff
- Q:What is your staff-to-resident ratio during day and night shifts?
- Q:How do you create and update individualized care plans?
- Q:What ongoing training do staff members receive?
- Q:How do you handle medical emergencies?
About Costs & Policies
- Q:What is the all-inclusive monthly cost, and what additional fees may apply?
- Q:Do you accept Medicaid, Medicare, or long-term care insurance?
- Q:What is your discharge policy if care needs exceed your capabilities?
- Q:What is the process for addressing concerns or complaints?
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