More Tips on Choosing a Nursing Home

Is the food okay? You can’t expect gourmet selections. But the food quality and presentation will exhibit the kitchen’s care – and that will reflect the nursing home’s more general attitude toward its residents. Serving (“plating” in the restaurant trade vernacular) meals in an attractive way makes for happier diners. Judge the food quality by having a meal or two. The sales staff will probably invite you for a meal without your having to ask.

Finally, visit off-hours (early morning and after dinner). Any differences noted in staff attitudes or facility orderliness from “regular” visiting time? 

A Tip on Choosing a Nursing Home – Do You Like the “Feel”?

A nursing home is like a hospital. It is unavoidably antiseptic. The decorative touches may be appealing or not. Likewise the food. But what really matters is whether the staff is caring.

How are you greeted when you first walk in? Friendly or businesslike?

Walk down the halls. Notice the interaction between staff and patients. Is warmth and compassion present? Of course, you want to make sure the care is competent, but if it’s delivered without friendly interaction, your loved one’s emotional needs are likely to be unmet.

Without that, unhappiness for all is almost a given. Nice surroundings, furnishings and gourmet fare will not compensate.