Choosing a nursing home for a loved one can be difficult. The facility must meet the needs of both the resident and their family. It is essential to visit several facilities before making a final decision.

The first step in choosing a nursing home is identifying the type of care needed. Many people choose to place their loved ones in a skilled nursing facility because it offers more intensive care than an assisted living facility, which helps with activities of daily living but not medical care. However, many other types of facilities may be appropriate for your family member’s needs. Examples include independent living, assisted living, adult day health centres and hospices.

If you consider placing your loved one in an assisted living or independent living facility, ask yourself if they can do things like getting dressed and bathe independently or needing assistance with these tasks every day or even several times per week. If your loved one can perform these tasks independently for at least some time, then an assisted living facility may be appropriate.