Questions To Ask Before Admission

How to Use This Question List

✓Print or save this list and bring it with you during facility tours

✓Don't feel obligated to ask every question—focus on what matters most for your loved one's specific needs

✓Take notes on the responses you receive and how staff react to your questions

✓Ask to speak with current residents and their families if possible

✓Pay attention to evasive answers or reluctance to provide specific information

• How often does a physician visit residents?

• What is your process for medical emergencies?

• Which hospital do you transfer residents to in emergencies?

• How do you manage pain for residents with chronic conditions?

• What specialized services do you provide (physical therapy, speech therapy, etc.)?

• How do you handle medication management and prevent errors?

• Do you have hospice services available or partner with a hospice provider?

• What is your fall prevention protocol?

• What is your registered nurse to resident ratio during day, evening, and night shifts?

• What is your overall nursing staff turnover rate?

• How long has your director of nursing been in this position?

• What percentage of your staff are certified nursing assistants versus licensed nurses?

• How do you handle staffing when someone calls in sick?

• What ongoing training do staff members receive?

• Are background checks performed on all staff members?

Staffing Questions

Medical Care Questions

• Can I see this week's menu?

• How do you accommodate special diets or food allergies?

• What happens if a resident refuses to eat or has difficulty eating?

• How often are residents weighed and monitored for weight loss?

• Can residents eat meals in their rooms if they prefer?

• Who supervises meal times to ensure residents are eating?

• Are snacks available between meals?

• How do you handle residents with swallowing difficulties?

• What is the total monthly cost, and what services are included?

• What additional services cost extra, and how much are they?

• Do you accept Medicare? For how long is it typically covered?

• Do you accept Medicaid? Is there a waiting list for Medicaid beds?

• What happens if a resident runs out of money?

• What are your policies on rate increases?

• What is your refund policy if we need to move my loved one?

• Are there any upfront deposits or admission fees?

Cost and Contract Questions

Dining/Nutrition Questions

• What is your infection control protocol?

• How do you prevent and address pressure ulcers?

• What security measures are in place for residents with dementia who may wander?

• How do you handle resident complaints or family concerns?

• Can you provide references from current resident families?

• What is your policy on resident-to-resident altercations?

• How often do you conduct fire drills and safety training?

• What happens during power outages or severe weather?

• What daily activities are offered to residents?

• How do you engage residents with dementia or cognitive impairment?

• Can residents continue hobbies or interests they enjoyed before?

• What are your visiting hours and policies?

• Can family members participate in care or activities?

• How do you accommodate cultural, religious, or language preferences?

• Is there outdoor space that residents can access?

• How do you handle birthdays, holidays, and special occasions?

Activities and Quality of Life

Safety and Operations Questions

• Ask open-ended questions that require detailed answers rather than simple yes/no responses

• Request to see documentation for claims about staffing ratios, inspection results, or quality measures

• Talk to current staff and ask about their experience with care, food, and activities. HIPAA prevents you from talking to other residents.

• Compare answers across multiple facilities to identify which ones provide the most transparent, detailed responses

• Follow up in writing on any important commitments or promises made during your tour

Additional Tips for Your Visit

Key Questions

Essential questions to ask when choosing a nursing home for your loved one.

Staffing

Ask about staff qualifications, turnover rates, and how they handle emergencies.

Care Quality

Inquire about daily routines, personalized care plans, and how they support residents’ independence.

Check how the facility manages nutrition, medication, and special needs like dementia care.

Environment