Do you feel comfortable with the facility’s outward appearance
and location?
Is the facility’s location convenient?
Did you observe staff members addressing the residents by name?
Do you notice the residents socializing with each other and do they appear
content?
If possible, speak with the residents about how they feel about the community.
Amenities
Are doorways, hallways and rooms accommodating to wheelchairs and walkers?
Are floors of a non-skid material, carpets and lighting conducive for
safe walking?
What emergency devices are used and is there an additional fee?
Can the residents decorate paint, hang pictures? Is there an additional
fee?
Is the bathroom wheelchair accessible and are there ample grab bars
in the bathroom?
How is cable and telephone billing handled?
Moving In, Contracts, and Financial Considerations
What moving companies do they use? Are there specific times for moving?
Is there a move-in coordinator? If so, is there a fee?
Will your room be held for you should you require a hospital/ nursing
home stay? If so, is there a reduction in fees during that time?
Are there annual increases in fees, if so, what is the usual percentage?
Do they participate in the Arizona Long Term Care Program? If so, is
there a length of time that private pay is required?
Health/Personal Care and Services
Does staff supervise a resident in taking medicine? May resident take
own medications?
Is there a pharmacy delivery service available? Are there additional
fees for not using the facility’s pharmacy?
Is transportation provided to doctor’s offices and is the resident
dropped off or does someone stay with them? Is this service available? If
so, what is the fee?
Are pharmacy, barber/beautician and/or physical therapy services offered
onsite?
Food
How many meals are provided? What are the fees for additional meals,
having meals delivered? What is the guest fee for meals?
What about special diets; does a qualified dietitian plan or approve
menus? Are resident's weight routinely monitored?
Is there assigned seating? What is the procedure if there is incompatibility?
Are the meal times flexible and are snack available in between meals?
Licensure and Certification
Ask to see the most recent state survey. Are there outstanding deficiencies
or complaints? If so, how were they resolved?
