10 questions to ask before choosing a care home

Touring care homes can be overwhelming. Bring this list and ask every place the same questions:

1. Is the home licensed, and can I see its inspection reports on the CDSS Facility Search? 2. How many caregivers are on duty day and night? 3. What training do caregivers have, including dementia care? 4. What's included in the base rate, and what costs extra? 5. How much notice do you give before rate increases?

6. Can I read the admission agreement before deciding? 7. What does a typical day look like — can I see this week's activity calendar and menu? 8. What happens if care needs increase? 9. What are the visiting rules? 10. How will you keep our family updated?

A good home will answer every question openly. At ACORN, we publish most of these answers on our Documents page before you even ask.