Touring nursing homes to find the best place for your loved one can be a stressful experience. It's helpful to have some questions prepared so that you don't miss out on any important information. Policies vary widely from place to place, so being able to compare them is important. The following questions cover bedroom essentials, food, activities, and more, so they're a great place to start.

1. What's included in bedrooms?

Don't assume that everything you see in a bedroom is included as standard, as this can vary. Ask whether things like furniture, bedding, curtains, the television, and the telephone are included, or whether these items should be brought in by the resident. If furniture is included, will your loved one be allowed to change things if they wish? For example, will they be allowed to swap their TV for a larger one or to put up their own curtains?

2. What activities are on offer?

Most nursing homes offer activities for residents, but in some places the options are limited. Ask about how often activities are run and how many people usually take part, and try to get a list of sample events to look at. Some nursing homes include things like painting, singing, yoga, tai chi, creative writing, board games, and film nights. Think about what your loved one might enjoy and take notes to refer back to when you speak to them.

3. How do meals and snacks work?

Food has a big impact on quality of life, so learning about mealtimes is essential. Will there be a good range of options to choose from at each meal, and does the home cater to different dietary requirements? Can residents eat in their rooms, or are all meals served in a communal dining room? Are residents able to buy or cook their own food, or can they order in? If possible, ask to speak to the chef or try a sample meal.

4. How much time can residents spend outdoors?

Getting time outside is really important for health and wellbeing, so don't forget to ask about it. Is there any outdoor space, like a communal garden, for residents to enjoy? If so, is there any limit to how often they can enjoy this space? Will there be organised trips to go shopping, visit parks, or take exercise? Some nursing homes have large outdoor spaces and regular trips with staff, while others rely on residents spending most of their time indoors.

You'll get more out of your nursing home tour if you ask the right questions. Start with those listed above and you'll soon find the best aged care option for your loved one. Contact aged care facilities in your area to learn more.