Selection Tips

1. Identify your needs. Establish a needs assessment list that caters to your loved one’s needs.

2. Prioritize. All nursing homes are different. Determine which items are most important to you and shop with those points in mind.

3. Evaluate the financial position of the patient. Determine how you will pay for care and accumulate the income and asset financial information you will need when applying for admittance.

4. Consult with the individual's physician to determine his or her medical needs.

6. Select your preferred facilities and generate a list of facilities in your area of interest.

7. Many facilities also have websites.

8. Contact the facilities of interest to schedule tours.

9. Use assessment list results to verify whether the facility you select meets your needs.

10. Start early! Some homes may have waiting lists. If possible, begin your search before you really need to.