A private tour is one of the most important steps in choosing a residential care home. Walking through the space, meeting the people, and asking questions in person will tell you things that no website or brochure can.
Coming prepared helps you make the most of the visit. Here is a practical checklist.
Documents to Bring (or Have Available)
- ✓A summary of your loved one's primary diagnoses and health history
- ✓Current medication list (name, dose, frequency, prescribing physician)
- ✓A brief description of their functional abilities and where they need assistance
- ✓Any recent hospital discharge summaries or physician notes, if available
- ✓Insurance information (Medicare, Medicaid, long-term care insurance, private pay)
Questions to Ask During the Tour
- ✓What does a typical day look like for residents?
- ✓How many caregivers are on duty right now? At night?
- ✓How are care plans developed and updated?
- ✓How do you communicate with families?
- ✓What happens if a resident's needs increase significantly?
Things to Observe
- ✓Does the home feel clean, calm, and well-maintained?
- ✓Do staff members interact warmly with residents?
- ✓Do residents appear comfortable and engaged?
- ✓Does the home smell clean? Are common areas inviting?
- ✓Does the person giving the tour answer your questions directly and honestly?
After the Tour
Take notes while the visit is fresh. If you toured more than one home, write down your impressions of each before they blur together.
It is completely appropriate to ask follow-up questions by phone or email. A good care home will welcome them.
If you are unsure, a second visit — perhaps with another family member — can be helpful.
Schedule a Private Tour
We welcome families to visit our Chesapeake home at their own pace. There is no pressure and no obligation — just an honest look at the home and a chance to ask every question on your list.