Questions to Ask Senior Care Facilities
Use this checklist during tours of assisted living communities, memory care units and nursing homes. Print it out, bring it with you and take notes. The answers reveal what daily life will really be like — not just what the brochure says.
This checklist covers staffing, medical care, medication management, memory care, meals, safety, emergencies, costs, contracts and discharge rules. Not every question applies to every facility type — use the sections most relevant to your situation.
How to use this checklist
Bring this list to every facility tour. Ask each question directly and write down the answers. Compare responses across facilities. A facility that is reluctant to answer these questions is a warning sign.
Staffing
- What is the staff-to-resident ratio during the day shift? Evening shift? Overnight?
- Is a registered nurse (RN) on-site 24 hours a day, or on-call?
- Is a licensed practical nurse (LPN) on duty overnight?
- What is the certified nursing assistant (CNA) hours per resident per day?
- What is the staff turnover rate for CNAs? For nurses? For the administrator?
- How long has the current administrator been in this role?
- How does the facility handle staffing shortages — do they use agency staff?
- What dementia-specific training is required for all staff (not just care staff)?
Medical Care and Medication Management
- How are medications managed? Who administers them?
- How are medication errors tracked and reported?
- Is there a physician or nurse practitioner who visits regularly? How often?
- How does the facility coordinate with a resident's personal physician?
- What happens if a resident's medical condition changes significantly?
- How are hospitalizations handled, and what is the policy for hospital transfers?
- Is hospice care available on-site if needed?
Memory Care (if applicable)
- Is the memory care unit physically secured to prevent wandering?
- What specific dementia training do memory care staff receive?
- How are behavioral symptoms (agitation, aggression, sundowning) managed?
- What structured activities are offered for residents with dementia?
- How is the care plan individualized for each resident's history and preferences?
- How does the facility involve families in care planning?
Meals and Nutrition
- How many meals and snacks are provided each day?
- Can the facility accommodate special diets (diabetic, low-sodium, texture-modified)?
- Are residents able to choose their meal times and dining companions?
- What happens if a resident refuses to eat or has significant weight loss?
- May I see a sample weekly menu?
Safety and Emergency Procedures
- What is the procedure for a medical emergency?
- How quickly are call lights answered? Is there a policy or standard?
- What is the fire safety and evacuation plan?
- How are falls prevented and managed?
- How are residents monitored overnight?
- What security measures are in place to prevent unauthorized entry or exit?
Activities and Quality of Life
- What activities are offered, and how often?
- Are activities adapted for residents with different ability levels?
- Is there outdoor space available for residents to use?
- How are residents involved in planning activities?
- What transportation is available for medical appointments and outings?
Costs and Financial Matters
- What is the complete monthly cost for a resident with my family member's specific care needs?
- What services are included in the base rate, and what triggers additional charges?
- How is the care level assessed, and how often is it reassessed?
- What is the community fee or move-in fee, and is it refundable?
- What is the history of annual rate increases over the past 3–5 years?
- Does the facility accept Medicaid? If so, what is the process if a resident runs out of private funds?
- What is the policy for refunds if a resident leaves or passes away?
Contracts and Legal Matters
- Does the contract contain an arbitration clause? (This waives the right to sue in court.)
- Does the contract include a personal financial responsibility clause for family members?
- What are the discharge and transfer policies — under what conditions can the facility ask a resident to leave?
- How much notice is given before a rate increase?
- May I have a copy of the contract to review before signing?
Discharge and Transition
- Under what circumstances would a resident be asked to leave?
- How much notice is given before a discharge?
- What assistance does the facility provide in finding alternative care if a resident must leave?
- What happens if a resident's care needs exceed what the facility can provide?
Inspection Records and Quality
- May I see the most recent state inspection report?
- Has the facility ever had its license suspended or placed on probation?
- Are there any pending complaints or enforcement actions?
- What is the facility's overall rating on Medicare Care Compare (for nursing homes)?
Resident Rights and Advocacy
- What is the process for filing a complaint or grievance?
- Does the facility have a resident council?
- Does the facility have a family council?
- How can I contact the Long-Term Care Ombudsman for this facility?
Need free local help?
The Eldercare Locator connects families with local Area Agencies on Aging, which provide free guidance on evaluating care options.
Find local aging services — eldercare.acl.govOr call: 1-800-677-1116
Questions about long-term care options? Call (855) 479-4345 for more information.
Last reviewed: September 2026. This page is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical, legal or financial advice.