Plan Ahead: How to Interview Memory Care and Nursing Homes Before You Need Them

Nobody wants to do this. And everyone plans to avoid it. However, choosing supportive care for your loved maybe be necessary someday. At some point, you may need additional support, or your loved one may need a different kind of care. Know what your options are in advance. Download and print copies of the checklist below to have ready.

GLC Facility Interview Form.pdf

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1. General Information

• What levels of care do you provide? (Assisted living, memory care, skilled nursing, etc.)

• Are you licensed and accredited?

• What is your staff-to-resident ratio (day/night)?

• Do you specialize in dementia care?

2. Admission & Assessment Process

• What’s the process for admission?

• Do you require a medical or cognitive assessment before entry?

• How long is the waitlist (if any)?

• What documentation is needed to begin?

3. Care & Support Services

• What dementia-specific support do you offer?

• How are care plans created and updated?

• How often in a week are residents evaluated by a nurse or doctor?

• Is there a designated memory care unit?

• How is behavioral or wandering risk managed?

4. Staff & Training

• What dementia-specific training does your staff receive?

• Is there a nurse or doctor on site 24/7?

• Are you challenged by staff turnover?

• Are there specialists on staff (geriatricians, therapists, social service)?

5. Activities & Engagement

• What daily activities are available, especially for dementia patients?

• Are programs personalized to the residents’ abilities/interests?

• Are there structured routines for consistency?

• Do you offer outdoor access and safe walking areas?

6. Facilities & Environment

• What are the room options? (Private/shared)

• Can residents bring personal items or furniture?

• Can I come for a tour?

7. Family Involvement & Communication

• Is there a family portal or regular care updates?

• Can family visit anytime?

• Are there support groups or resources for families?

8. Costs & Insurance

• What are your monthly costs for different levels of care?

• What is included in the cost (meals, laundry, activities)?

• What services are billed separately?

• Do you accept Medicare, Medicaid, or long-term care insurance?

9. Transition & Long-Term Considerations

• How do you handle changes in health or dementia progression?

• Can residents age in place or must they transfer at some point?

• What happens if financial resources run out?

10. Final Impressions

• First impression of staff/facility?

• Gut feeling about care quality?

• Any red flags or

• Any standout positives?