When looking for a skilled nursing facility, ask questions about safety, services, billing and staffing to find the right fit. Questions such as these give you a better idea of how the facility operates and whether it’s a secure and comfortable place for you or your loved one. Below, you’ll find a list of questions to ask when touring skilled nursing facilities.

Health and Safety Questions

These questions show you how seriously the facility takes patient health and security. Good questions include:

  • Does the facility have on-site physical, recreational and speech therapists?
  • What does the facility do to help prevent infections and the spread of COVID-19?
  • Has nursing staff ever been involved in cases of elder neglect or abuse?
  • How is the facility prepared for fires, accidents and natural disasters?
  • What does this facility do to prevent bed sores?
  • What is your policy on medication administration?
  • Is memory care provided in a specialized secure unit?

Billing, Services and Staffing Questions

Ask these questions to learn more about billing, meals, services and staffing.

  • What kind of insurance do you accept?
  • Do you accept Medicaid/Medicare?
  • What happens if my loved one or I run out of money?
  • What’s included in the monthly rate?
  • What services are offered for an extra fee?
  • What’s the staff-to-resident ratio?
  • What’s the staff turnover rate?
  • What kind of training do caregivers have?
  • Does the facility accommodate special dietary needs and meal preferences?

General Questions

These questions help you learn about the facility’s activities, family involvement and resident satisfaction.

  • What does the facility’s activity schedule look like?
  • Are residents allowed to choose their own activities?
  • Are residents encouraged to spend time outdoors?
  • How do you protect residents’ dignity and privacy?
  • Can residents bring items from home?
  • Does the facility conduct family/resident satisfaction surveys? If so, can you show me the results?
  • What’s the facility’s visitation policy?
  • Are families involved in decision-making and care planning?