Questions to ask a care home

At a glance

Take this checklist to every care-home visit and record the answers in the same order. It is designed for families comparing care in Australia or the United States. Local rules differ, so ask the provider to explain the requirements that apply to its service.

Before the visit

Write the person’s three priorities and essential care needs at the top of your notes. Add the home’s name, date, room offered and the staff member answering. Ask permission before taking photographs or recording conversations.

Plan your next steps

Care and everyday life

How will you assess and meet this person’s needs from the first day?
Who provides care overnight, and how quickly can someone respond?
How are medicines, pain, falls and changes in health managed?
What training and support do staff have for dementia or other particular needs?
How can residents choose routines, meals, activities and visitors?
How are cultural, language, hearing and communication needs supported?

Costs, rights and changes

What is included, what is extra and when can prices change?
Can we see the agreement, refund and notice terms before deciding?
What happens during hospital leave or if care needs increase?
Who handles concerns, and how can a resident contact an independent advocate?
Where can we read current inspection or quality information?
What happens if the home says it can no longer meet the person’s needs?

Questions and useful links

After the visit

For each essential need, mark: confirmed in writing / needs follow-up / not available. Add observations about staff interactions and the person’s own reaction. Give unresolved questions to a named contact and agree when you will hear back.

Is the highest score automatically best?

No. One unmet essential need may matter more than several attractive extras. Use the checklist to support a conversation, not to produce a clinical assessment or a league table.

How to choose a facility · Compare care homes · Residential care guides

Sources and review

My Aged Care. (n.d.). Find a provider. Accessed 19 September 2026.

Checklist questions are original planning prompts from How to Access Aged Care.

About this guide
Australia and United States • Prepared September 2026. Editorial lead: Louise Simon. Independent specialist review has not yet been completed. General information; confirm advice for your circumstances.

Download the printable visit checklist and family planning pack (PDF, 5 pages)