Finding care, one step at a time

1. Agree on what matters

• Ask your loved one which routines, relationships and preferences they want to keep.
• List the location, monthly budget and timing you can work with.
• With the care team, write down the help needed during the day and overnight. Ask whether support at home or another care setting should also be considered.

2. Make the first call

• Describe the help needed with bathing, dressing, walking or transfers, medications and memory. Ask what the community can and cannot provide, and how it assesses a new resident.
• Ask about current openings, assessment steps and how soon a move could be arranged. A listing or licensed bed count is not a confirmed opening.
• Ask who is available overnight and what happens if care needs change.

3. Get the complete cost in writing

• Separate base rent, care charges, medication support and other recurring charges. Ask what is included and what would increase the price.
• Record one-time fees, deposits, refund rules, required notice and the quote’s effective date.
• Ask which payment sources the community accepts and how eligibility is confirmed. Leave unknown costs blank; do not treat them as zero.

4. Check records and visit

• Confirm the current license and the care category it covers. Find inspection and complaint reports through the state agency.
• Check the dates, findings and any follow-up. Ask how concerns were addressed. Missing reports do not mean a clean record.
• Visit during a meal or activity if possible. Ask your loved one what feels comfortable and what still concerns them.

5. Decide together

• Compare the same care needs and fee categories across communities. Write down unanswered questions before signing.
• Review the agreement, rate changes, discharge policies and refund terms; ask for clarification of anything unclear.
• Confirm the available room, final care plan, total charges and move-in arrangements directly with the community.

Our next step

Community / contact:

Question to resolve:

Who will follow up, and when: