How to choose an elderly care unit: 10 questions before you decide

Deciding to trust a loved one to an elderly care unit is rarely easy. It usually comes after a fall, a stay in hospital, or when caring at home has become too difficult for the family. The ten questions below help you compare calmly and keep notes at each visit.

Before the visit

Does the unit hold a valid operating license? Ask to see it. A serious unit will not hesitate.
What does the cost include? Ask which expenses are charged separately, such as medicines, incontinence products or special treatments.
How close is it to you? The easier the journey, the more often the family will visit.

During the visit

Is a nurse on duty around the clock? Ask specifically what happens at night and at weekends.
How often does a doctor monitor the residents? Find out too how the unit works with other specialists.
Who manages the medicines? Ask them to explain how medicines are prepared, given and recorded.
How do the residents spend their day? Ask for the program of activities, physiotherapy and psychological support.
What is the food like? Ask whether it is adapted to special diets and see the dining room at mealtime.

For everyday contact

When can relatives visit? Find out whether visiting hours are restricted and whether you can go out for a walk together.
How is the family kept informed? Ask who will call you when there is a change in health and whether you have access to the medical record.

Notice what is not said

The answers matter, but so does what you see. Is the place clean and bright? How do the staff speak to the older people? Do they call them by name? Do the residents look calm? If you can, visit a second time, at a different time of day. And if their health allows, take your loved one with you, because their opinion counts.

How to use the answers

Write the answers on a simple sheet for each unit, so you can compare with a clear head. Do not decide on price alone or on first impressions alone. Talk to the older person's doctor as well, so you know what level of care they need today and what they may need in the future.

Enilion in Nafpaktos

At our unit, visiting is unrestricted, nursing cover is 24-hour, and an internist provides daily medical monitoring. The cost of accommodation depends on each person's needs. We would be glad to show you around and answer every question on this list.

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