Choosing a senior living facility for a loved one is one of the most important decisions a family can make. Whether you’re searching for assisted living, memory care, or a skilled nursing home, the quality of life your loved one experiences will depend greatly on the community you select.
At ElderLink, we guide families through this journey every day. To help you make a confident, informed decision, we’ve created a checklist of the 10 most important questions you should ask when evaluating any senior facility.
What Levels of Care Are Offered?
Not all senior facilities provide the same services. Some specialize in independent living, while others offer assisted living, memory care, or nursing care. Ask which levels of care are available and whether residents can transition within the community if their needs change.
This is especially important if your loved one has a progressive condition like Alzheimer’s. A continuum of care allows for a smoother transition without needing to relocate to a new facility.
What Is the Staff-to-Resident Ratio?
The number of caregivers available directly affects the quality of care. Ask:
- How many caregivers are on duty during the day and overnight?
- Are nurses on-site 24/7?
- What is the ratio in memory care or high-needs units?
A lower ratio usually means more personalized attention, especially important for residents with medical or cognitive conditions.
What Are the Qualifications and Training of the Staff?
Ensure the caregivers and medical staff have the proper credentials and training. For example:
- Are memory care staff trained in dementia-specific care?
- Are CPR and first-aid certifications required?
- Do staff receive ongoing education?
Also ask about turnover rates. A high turnover can be a red flag, while long-term staff tend to foster stronger relationships with residents.
What Is the Monthly Cost and What’s Included?
Senior living can be costly, so it’s important to understand exactly what you’re paying for. Ask for a clear breakdown of:
- Monthly base rate
- What’s included (meals, housekeeping, activities)
- Additional fees (medication management, transportation, personal care)
Some facilities offer tiered pricing based on the level of assistance needed. Knowing this up front helps prevent financial surprises later.
Are There Safety and Security Measures in Place?
Your loved one’s safety is a top priority. Ask about:
- Emergency response systems in rooms
- Staff response times
- Fall prevention programs
- Secured doors and monitoring (especially in memory care)
For memory care residents, secured perimeters and wander management systems are essential.
What Does a Typical Day Look Like?
A structured daily routine filled with engaging activities promotes physical and mental well-being. Ask to see the activity calendar and find out:
- Are there group activities, outings, or exercise classes?
- Are activities tailored to residents’ interests or cognitive levels?
- Are residents encouraged to participate?
Also ask how the facility supports social interaction—loneliness can significantly impact a senior’s health.
What Are the Meals Like?
Nutrition is critical for older adults. Ask:
- Are meals cooked on-site?
- Can dietary needs (diabetic, low-sodium, etc.) be accommodated?
- Can residents eat in their rooms if desired?
If possible, request to see a sample menu—or better yet, join a meal during your tour. Observe whether meals are fresh, nutritious, and appealing.
How Does the Facility Communicate with Families?
Family involvement is essential, especially when a loved one has cognitive decline or complex health needs. Ask:
- How often does the staff provide updates?
- Is there a designated point of contact for each resident?
- Can families access a resident portal or care records?
Facilities with strong communication policies tend to foster better outcomes and greater peace of mind for families.
What Happens If My Loved One’s Health Needs Change?
As your loved one ages, their care requirements may evolve. Ask:
- Can the facility accommodate increased care needs?
- Will the resident need to move to another building or facility?
- Are hospice or palliative care services available?
Choosing a facility that can adapt to your loved one’s changing needs reduces disruption and stress in the future.
What Do Residents and Families Say About the Facility?
The best way to understand life at a senior facility is to hear directly from those who live there—or their families. Ask for references and read online reviews.
You might ask:
- Are residents happy and engaged?
- How does the facility handle complaints?
- Are families satisfied with the care provided?
During your tour, take time to observe resident interactions, cleanliness, and staff behavior. Trust your instincts—if something feels off, ask questions.
Bonus Tip: Take a Tour (or Several)
Visiting in person (or taking a virtual tour) gives you a better sense of the facility’s environment. Look for:
- Cleanliness and maintenance
- Staff demeanor and attentiveness
- Resident engagement
- Safety features
- Room sizes and layouts
Bring your checklist and don’t be afraid to ask questions. The more informed you are, the more confident you’ll feel about your decision.
Be Thorough, Be Thoughtful
Choosing a senior living facility is not just a logistical decision—it’s an emotional one too. It’s about ensuring your loved one is safe, cared for, and respected. By asking the right questions, you’ll gather the information you need to make the best choice for your family.
At ElderLink, we’re here to help you through every step of the process. From comparing options to understanding costs and touring facilities, our advisors offer free personalized guidance to help you make a confident, compassionate decision.
