Top 10 tips to help select an Aged Residential Care Facility
Download the brochure: how-to-choose-a-facility v2
Download the original paper: How do I choose a residential care facility-paper
This webpage is designed to provide 10 tips for those who are in search of the right residential aged care facility. This may for be a family member, a friend or maybe even yourself!
We have frequently been asked on tips to choosing the right aged care facility, so we have made this website for you!
1. Read the audit before visiting the facility
Look out for statistics on:
- Falls
- Pressure Injuries
- Happiness of the current residents
- How staff treats the residents
These can be seen on the Ministry of Health website
2. Ask about the types of activities provided at the facility
Meaningful activities are provide to improve quality of life. Some examples of activities are:
- Community outings
- Gardening
- Art and exercise
- Music and animals
3. Do they cater to your dietary requirements?
- Attempt a visit at lunch time to taste a meal.
4. Ask about the facility’s care philosophy
- Does it align with your own? Resident centred care is important for wellbeing and autonomy.
5. What is the staff ratio?
- Ask about nurses and health care assistants.
- Will the home meet your individual needs?
6. Does your facility encourage family involvement and open communication?
- Having open communication creates a positive facility culture with families being involved in resident care.
- Ask what would be the best way to contact the facility.
7. Frequency of doctor and/or nurse practitioner.
- How often will you meet a doctor and/or nurse practitioner?
- Make sure you are satisfies with how the doctors and nurse practitioner rounds are conducted.
8. Is there a waiting list?
- If there is, you may want to plan a little ahead
9. How well established is management of the facility
- It is important that your manager knows about the facility and to keep you safe.
10. Consider the layout of the facility.
- Ask for a tour
- Is it easy to navigate?
- Ask to see what your room may look like?
- Are there any communal areas where you can interact with other residents?
- Are there any gardens that create indoor- outdoor flow?
Ultimately, it is important to choose a facility that suits your needs. Now every facility will be perfect for everyone, so make sure you are comfortable with the standard of care, the activities provided and the physical appearance/ layout of the facility.
Don’t hesitate to ask questions if you are unsure.
Finally, remember to do some background research on the facility, including previous audits.
Te Arai Research Group 