Choosing A Care Home Checklist

When my father was diagnosed with early-stage dementia, I found myself standing in a hallway of a care home, staring at a brochure that promised 'a supportive community and compassionate care.' I had no idea what to look for — or how to ask the right questions. Choosing a care home checklist became my lifeline in a moment of chaos. It wasn’t just about finding a place that had a nice garden or smelled like lavender; it was about ensuring that the people working there were trained, empathetic. Capable of handling the complex needs that come with aging and illness.

I spent weeks visiting homes, asking questions, and taking notes. What struck me was how few families actually used a checklist during their search. Most relied on gut feelings or recommendations from friends. But when my father moved in, I realized that the checklist had helped us avoid a lot of potential problems — like a home with poor staffing ratios or a facility that didn’t have clear emergency protocols. It was a small tool, but it made a big difference in our peace of mind.^[1]

If you’re in the same boat, I hope this checklist becomes your guide. It’s not a magic wand, but it’s a practical, actionable way to ensure that your loved one is placed in the best possible environment. Whether you're choosing a care home for a parent, a grandparent, or yourself, the right home can change everything. Let’s get started.

Start with the basics — the facility and staff

As of August 2026, when you visit a care home, the first thing you should notice is how clean and organized it is. A home that is cluttered or has a strong chemical smell might not be a good fit. I remember one home I visited where the floors were sticky and the air was filled with the scent of cleaning products — it made me uncomfortable and raised red flags.

Next, look at the staff. Are they friendly? Do they seem engaged with the residents? I asked one staff member at a home where I had a good experience, and she explained that she had been working there for over five years. That kind of stability and dedication is a big plus.

Also, ask about the staff-to-resident ratio. A ratio of 1:6 is considered ideal in many facilities. If a home can’t maintain that, it might be a sign of understaffing or poor management.

Part of our Choosing apartment guide.

Check the care plan and individual needs

I noticed that one home had a whiteboard in each resident’s room with their care plan and medication schedule. That level of detail gave me confidence that the staff was organized and attentive to each person’s needs.

Ask about the types of care available — physical, emotional, and cognitive. Some homes offer specialized programs for people with dementia or mobility issues. Others focus on social engagement and mental stimulation.

If your loved one has specific medical needs, make sure the home has the right resources and trained professionals on site. I asked one facility about their experience with residents who had diabetes, and they had a nurse on staff who was available 24/7.^[2]

Tailored care plans make all the difference in a resident’s quality of life.

Related: Choosing a daycare checklist

Visit at different times of day

I made sure to visit the home in the early morning, midday, and late afternoon. Each time, I noticed different things — from the level of activity in the common areas to how the staff handled meals and medication.

Some homes have a more active vibe during the day, with residents participating in group activities. Others are quieter and more relaxed. Understanding the rhythm of the home helps you decide if it’s a good fit for your loved one.

Also, visiting at different times can help you see how the staff responds to different situations. I saw one home where the staff was more attentive in the morning, but the afternoon was a bit more chaotic. That was a red flag for me.

“When my father was diagnosed with early-stage dementia, I found myself standing in a hallway of a care home, staring at a brochure that promised…”— Choosing a Toddler Bookshelf editors

Related: Choosing a nursery checklist

Review the emergency procedures

I asked one home about their emergency protocols, and they had a detailed plan for everything from fire drills to medical emergencies. They also had a backup generator in case of a power outage.

Make sure the staff is trained in CPR and first aid. I visited a home where the staff demonstrated a full CPR drill, and it made me feel confident that they were prepared for any emergency.

Also, ask about the hospital relationships and how quickly they can get a resident to a facility in case of a critical situation. A home with good connections to local hospitals is a big plus.

Evaluate the social and recreational activities

I visited a home that had a daily schedule of activities — from art classes to yoga sessions. The residents were engaged and happy, which was a clear sign of a well-run facility.

Ask about the types of activities offered and how often they happen. Some homes have weekly events, while others have daily or even hourly activities to keep residents stimulated.

Also, check if the home encourages family involvement. One home had a regular family day where relatives could come in and help with activities, which was a big plus for me.

Consider the cost and financial options

I made a list of all the homes I visited and compared their costs. Some were significantly more expensive than others, and I had to consider what my budget allowed.

Ask about the different payment options — some homes accept long-term care insurance, while others have sliding scale fees based on income. I found one home that offered a financial assistance program for low-income residents, which was a big relief.

Also, make sure you understand all the fees — from the initial deposit to monthly charges and any hidden costs. A transparent home will be upfront about everything.

Understanding the financial aspects upfront can save you from surprises later on.

Ask for references and testimonials

I asked the home for references, and they provided contact information for several families who had lived there for years. I spoke with one family who had been there for over two years, and they were very happy with the care and support their loved one received.

If possible, visit the home with a current resident or their family member. That way, you can get a firsthand account of what it’s like to live there.

Also, check online reviews and forums. Some homes have a strong reputation, while others may have complaints. I found one home that had a number of negative reviews, and after speaking with the management, they had taken steps to improve the situation.

Choosing A Care Home Checklist