🏡 The 5 Critical Questions to Ask Before Choosing a Personal Care Home

Making the decision to move, or help a loved one move, can be a hard choice. While there are many nice-looking facilities, smaller, residential care homes—like Evergreen Homestead—offer a personalized, close-knit environment.

Use this simple checklist to call ahead for preliminary information and ensure peace of mind as you plan this important transition.

The Checklist: 5 Questions for Peace of Mind

1. What is the actual, on-the-unit, staff-to-resident ratio?

This matters because: Most larger facilities include auxiliary staff (e.g., administrative or maintenance) in their overall staffing numbers, which can give a false impression of the actual hands-on care available. A small residential home inherently provides close attention and a high ratio. Ask specifically for the caregiver-to-resident ratio during typical day and night shifts.

2. Is the pricing all-inclusive, or are there separate fees for increased care needs?

This matters because: Many facilities start with a low base rate but then charge extra for essential services like medication management, laundry, or even Wi-Fi. These add-ons can greatly and unexpectedly increase the monthly charge. Ask for a written breakdown of all potential tiered service fees.

3. What is the average longevity and training of the caregivers?

This matters because: High staff turnover rates often indicate that caregivers are dissatisfied with working conditions. Frequent turnover means the staff will be unfamiliar to the residents, which is disruptive to the relationship-based care model. Ask about the average length of employment and specific ongoing dementia or specialized care training.

4. What are the Limitations on Care? What level of care would require a move?

This matters because: It's vital to know the limits of the home's license and capabilities. Ask for clear, specific examples of what they cannot manage (e.g., "We cannot accept residents requiring a ventilator" or "We can safely handle two-person transfers"). Understanding these limits prevents a disruptive, unexpected move later on.

5. How are Families Involved, and What is the Communication Process?

This matters because: Communication is key to ensuring your loved one's needs are met. Ask how often you'll receive updates, how care plans are developed and reviewed, and if the home hosts family events or care conferences. A supportive home will make you feel like a partner in care.

🔑 Your Final Call to Action

The best way to answer these questions is to see the home in person.

• Visit The Website: Learn more about the unique environment at Evergreen Homestead.

• Book Your Tour: Call the manager directly right now to schedule a time to visit. 717-884-8804

• Observe and Investigate During Your Tour:

  • Staff Interaction: Observe how the caregivers interact with the residents. Are they respectful, friendly, and compassionate, or do they hurry away?

  • Resident Engagement: Note if the residents seem happy and engaged, or bored and disinterested?

  • Rooms: Check out more than one room. Are they homey or austere, and are they all the same?

  • The Menu: Thoroughly investigate the menu, as the quality of the food is a common complaint. If possible, observe or share a meal.