Step 4: Narrow your choices and visit the sites
By Paula Spencer Scott, Caring.com senior editor
To make the decision process less overwhelming, winnow your list down to a handful of candidates and make appointments to visit them in person. (These initial visits should be made by you alone, without the person in your care.)
NADSA recommends asking yourself these questions:
- Did you feel welcomed?
- Did someone spend time finding out what you want and need?
- Did someone clearly explain what services and activities the center provides?
- Did someone present information about staffing, program procedures, costs, and what is expected of caregivers?
- Was the facility clean, pleasant, and free of odor?
- Were the building and rooms wheelchair accessible?
- Was the furniture sturdy and comfortable? Were there loungers for relaxation? Chairs with arms? Was there a quiet place for conferences?
- Was there a place to isolate sick persons?
- Did the staff and participants seem cheerful?
- Were volunteers helping?
- Were participants involved in planning activities or making other suggestions?
Additionally, you may want to look for:
- A garden or outdoor area
- Clean, accessible bathrooms
- Security measures to prevent clients from wandering away
- The quality and atmosphere of the activities (watch some)
- A menu or sense of the food offered
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