Choosing the right skilled nursing facility is an important decision for both individuals and families. A tour offers a valuable opportunity to look beyond brochures and websites and experience the community firsthand. At Windsor El Camino Care Center, we believe informed families make the best decisions, which is why we encourage visitors to ask plenty of questions during their tour.
To help guide your visit, here are some of the top questions to consider when touring a skilled nursing facility.
- What levels of care are available?
Understanding the types of care offered is crucial. Ask about the facility’s ability to support both short-term rehabilitation needs and long-term skilled nursing care. Inquire about specialty programs as well, such as post-surgical recovery, cardiac rehabilitation, or memory care services depending on your specific needs.
- How are care plans developed?
It is important to know how individualized care plans are created and updated. Ask who is involved in the process and how often care plans are reviewed. A good facility will involve not just medical staff, but also residents and family members, ensuring that care aligns with personal goals and preferences.
- What are the staff-to-resident ratios?
Staffing levels can have a major impact on the quality of care. Ask about the typical staff-to-resident ratio for nurses, caregivers, and therapists. Also, find out if the facility provides 24-hour registered nursing coverage and how quickly staff are able to respond to resident needs.
- What therapy services are offered on-site?
If rehabilitation is a goal, ask about available therapy services. Find out if physical, occupational, and speech therapies are provided and how often therapy sessions are scheduled. It is also helpful to ask if therapy programs are tailored to individual recovery plans.
- What is the approach to social activities and engagement?
Maintaining an active and social lifestyle is important for overall well-being. Ask about daily activities, events, and opportunities for residents to connect with one another. A good facility should offer a variety of programs that support physical, cognitive, and emotional health.
- How does the facility communicate with families?
Communication is key to peace of mind. Ask how the facility keeps families informed about a resident’s health, activities, and any changes in care. Some facilities offer regular updates by phone or email, while others invite families to participate in care meetings.
- What are the dining options?
While dining services vary from facility to facility, it is important to know how meals are planned and served. Ask if the facility accommodates special dietary needs and preferences. You may also want to inquire if residents can enjoy meals with visitors or order alternative menu options.
- How are safety and security maintained?
Resident safety should always be a top priority. Ask about the facility’s security measures, emergency preparedness plans, and how they manage resident safety throughout the day and night.
Making an Informed Decision
Touring a skilled nursing facility is the best way to get a true sense of its environment, care philosophy, and community spirit. By asking the right questions, you can make a confident and informed choice for yourself or your loved one. At Windsor El Camino Care Center, we are always happy to answer your questions and show you what makes our community a trusted choice for skilled nursing care.