Tips for finding the right retirement home

If you or your loved one need to find a retirement home, you know that choosing a home is not a decision to make lightly. Visiting the home before you make a final decision is the best way to determine if a retirement home is a good fit. You'll probably be escorted around the property by a member of the staff who will stress the positives of the home and try to make a sale. Below are some things to look for during your visit to a retirement home.

• If the staff doesn't feel appreciated, it will eventually show in their work.
• It may be an indication of poor staff morale if nurses, dining room staff or housekeepers appear excessively tired or unhappy.
• Pay attention to facial expressions and the way staff speak to residents or each other.
• Listen to what residents say as they relax in common areas, too.
• Disgruntled staff can be an indication of poor management practises or the result of poor hiring choices.
• Either way, the attitude will rub off on residents. Your loved one will not be an exception.

• You may be invited to enjoy a meal during your tour. Be sure to take advantage of this opportunity.
• If your loved one has a dietary restriction, such a diabetes or a food allergy, this will be a great way to see how well the kitchen can accommodate the request.
• Even if there are no dietary restrictions, you can evaluate the quality of the food your loved one will be eating on a daily basis.
• Not only will poor dining options affect a resident's morale, they also provide an indication of the retirement home's budget.
• Make sure that the money you're paying for a home will go toward caring for the residents.

• Offering a variety of activities can help residents feel happy and content.
• Your loved one shouldn't be idle unless he or she wishes.
• Ask what types of activities the home offers.
• How often is there an opportunity to do something?
• Are all activities confined to the home or are there outside trips?
• How do the residents feel about planned activities? Do you think your loved one will like these activities?
• If you're given the opportunity to sit in during one of these activities, be sure to take that chance.