Seniorline

Ask questions about:

Ownership / Management

	Who owns the facility? Do they belong to an association?
	Who manages the facility? What experience do they have?
	What is the level of staff turnover?
	Is there a residents’ committee?
	Are there other levels of care on the same site?
	Is the facility on the market or about to change manager?

	Do you have to pay more than maximum contribution? If so, what for?
	Is there an extra charge for an ensuite / superior room?
	Do you need to provide a guarantor for payment?
	Ask for a copy of the Admission Agreement and check for additional charges.

Meals

	Ask the residents about the food.
	What times are the meals - when is the main meal?
	Are the meals cooked on site or delivered?
	Are special / culturally appropriate diets available?

Care
 

	How are family / whanau involved in writing the Care Plan and reviews?
	What is the ratio of staff to residents?
	For rest homes, how many hours per week is a registered nurse on duty, and when?
	Which doctor visits, how often, and is there a choice?
	Can you have a shower every day?

Bedrooms

	Can you bring your own furniture?
	Is the bed a comfortable height?
	Can people enter your room without permission?

Bathrooms

	How close are the toilets to the bedrooms?
	Is there an ensuite? Ensuite usually means your own private toilet. A communal shower is often acceptable, as most residents need help.
	Is there a bath? Many facilities offer only a shower.

Other services

	Does a hairdresser call?
	Does the facility do residents’ hand-washing? What happens about items lost in the laundry?
	Is transport available for appointments and activities? Can it carry wheelchairs?
	Is there a free private phone for resident use?

Grounds and buildings

	Would you prefer a small or a large facility? Small facilities offer a more homely, personal environment, a larger place may have more company and organised activities.
	How many lounges are there? Is there a choice?
	Is there a pleasant, sheltered outdoor area to sit?

Activities

	How many hours per week does the activities person work?
	Are outings arranged and how often can each resident go?
	Is there extra cost for outings or activities?

Rules
 

	What happens if you want to move?
	Is there an area where residents can smoke?
	Can residents drink alcohol?
	Can you take your pet with you?

Fire safety

	Ask to see the Fire Certificate. An alarm system with both sprinklers and smoke alarms provides the best protection. Ask to see written proof of the last evacuation drill.
	Residents should only be moved outside in an extreme emergency. Are there safe areas within the complex?

Concerns

	How does a family / whanau member raise a concern?  It is ‘ok’ to talk about concerns.
	Is there an independent advocate? Who is it?