Would You Put a Loved One in a Large For-Profit Norfolk Nursing Home?

1. Have your loved one evaluated to determine his/her physical and mental status and to learn his/her needs.
2. Other than level of care, determine what is essential in selecting a nursing home, such as location and cost of care. Read the “fine print” to understand what the cost includes and what is extra.
3. Evaluate each facility during the day and in the evening – What are the patients doing? Are they kept busy? Are there recreational and socialization opportunities? Is the facility kept clean? Are the rooms and bathrooms clean? Are the dining areas and kitchen clean?
4. Determine how the staff handles sick patients.
5. Find out if there is a physician on-site or a 24-hour emergency response system.
6. Determine the ratio of staff to patients, both during the day and at night. 
7. Talk to the residents – ask them about their experiences in the nursing home. Observe their mannerisms and behavior, and determine if, in your opinion, they appear well kept and well cared for.