How do I find the right nursing home?

When searching for a suitable nursing home for a family member who needs care, there are many factors to consider. A care consultation can help clarify what is particularly important for your family member. If possible, take the time to visit the potential nursing home together with your family member who needs care and assess the facilities on-site at your own pace. Discuss your first impressions in detail. If a trial day is offered, you might want to take advantage of it.

What is particularly important to you?

In advance, discuss with your family member who needs care—if possible, together— which of the following aspects are particularly important to you and on which points you might be willing to compromise:

• Location of the House
• Scope of Nursing Care
• Comprehensive and meaningful employment opportunities
• Attractive outdoor area
• Building Layout/Easy Navigation
• Special Services for People with Dementia
• Use of Volunteers
• Regular Church Services
• other cultural activities
• The facility’s connections within the region; external social contacts
• Option to add your own furniture to the room
• Caring for Small Animals
• Accommodating Individual Preferences Regarding Meals

You can download our complete checklist for choosing a nursing home as a PDF here.

The Home Contract

The written residential care contract should set forth the rights and obligations of the resident and the provider, as well as the agreed-upon scope of services. These include, among other things, the type and amenities of the accommodations, as well as the type and extent of meals and supervision. Information regarding the fees to be paid and compensation in the event of an absence (vacation, hospitalization, etc.) must also be included. Also, be sure to note the notice periods specified in the residence contract or whether it is a fixed-term contract.

Here you’ll find our complete checklist for nursing home contracts, covering everything you need to keep in mind.