Did you feel welcome when you visited the nursing center? Were people friendly? Did you observe caring interactions?

Were you given the opportunity to tour the building?

Did staff members seem friendly and knowledgeable, and did they willingly answer questions?

Is there a pleasant, positive atmosphere in the facility?

Are residents engaged in activities? Do you see a posted schedule of activities with several daily offerings?

Does the home appear to be clean? Are there any unpleasant odors?

Are residents treated with dignity and respect? Are they well groomed? In conversation, are they treated with respect?

Do staff members knock on resident doors and wait before entering? Is resident care given in private?

Are rooms homelike?

Is a social worker available?

In the admissions process, are residents and families informed of their rights?

How are residents and their families involved in the planning of care?

Do residents have the opportunity to worship in the facility?

Do residents have the opportunity to interact with the community?

Does the facility try to ensure roommate compatibility?

Does the nursing center offer a full range of therapies?

Is there a resident council? Is there a family council?

Do residents continue to vote?

At meal time, does the food look appetizing? Is there a pleasant atmosphere in the dining room?

Is the noise level in the facility comfortable? Is it too quiet—or too noisy?

Do you see few restraints?

Are the buildings and grounds well maintained? In season, are flowers planted and flowerbeds well groomed? Is there trash in the parking lot?

Are residents allowed to set their own rising and going to bed hours?

Does the admissions director help you and your family understand nursing center costs and charges?

Ask: is the facility a drug free workplace? Does the facility do background checks on all employees?

Is the nursing center’s annual survey readily available for your inspection?

Is the nursing center certified for Medicare?

If you have long term care insurance or other insurance, will the nursing center work with you to explore your benefits?

Have you reviewed the facility’s survey data?

How does the facility compare with others in the area in quality measures on the http://www.medicare.gov/ website?

Ask to see the facility staffing schedule, which must be posted. How does this compare with other facilities in the area?

Ask friends and medical professionals if they have had experience with the nursing center you are considering.

Does the facility welcome visitors? Ask about visiting hours.

If family members live far away, is there a volunteer visitor program?