Families faced with moving their loved ones to a residential care facility must make several choices. However, some tips make the task smoother, such as conducting thorough research and understanding the costs.

Residential care facilities or board and care homes provide home-like private care facilities designed for older persons struggling to live comfortably and safely in their own homes. The facilities cater to older persons needing more help than their family and friends can provide.

Most residential care facilities do not provide round-the-clock medical nursing or medical care. Therefore, family members should understand how much care each one provides. The facility should offer medical care that meets the medical needs of the potential resident. Moreover, families should explore if the facility provides professional on-site dental, optical, and nutritional care.

Next, evaluate the location since some residents can become lonely. Some families and residents benefit from facilities near their homes, allowing them and their friends to visit easily.

Residential care facility units vary. Some consist of spacious, clean, well-furnished apartments that feel like home. Others offer different amenities. Ideally, residents have access to the amenities they need to feel at home with a welcoming staff treating residents with respect and dignity.

Before picking a residential care facility, families must consider the costs. Several factors, like location and level of care provided, determine a residential facility's dues. Nonetheless, the costs should match the level of care and amenities provided, especially the quality.

Some residents require a place to worship; others would like access to a library or entertainment room. Therefore, pick a facility that meets the social needs of its residents.

Since residents live full-time at residential care facilities, families must sample the food menu or understand what their family members will eat. The food can affect the quality of life, and some residents require customized options. Therefore, the facility should meet their dietary needs.

Families can research essential care facilities online. After narrowing down the options to a few, they should complete their due diligence and visit them. Schedule a tour and speak with staff. Then, visit with staff members who would have direct contact with the resident. During the tour, observe how the staff treats the residents, keeping in mind any not open to scrutiny.

Pay attention to hygiene. A residential facility should be clean, including the dining, sleeping, and lounging areas. A good facility also welcomes help from family members. Read its “house rules,” which can reveal more insights into the facility's culture. It should not stifle residents’ independence with overly restrictive rules and routines but keep them safe.

At the site, talk to the residents. Ask for their opinions. Look for signs of abuse, such as staff shouting at residents or berating them in front of others. Staff should know the names of their residents.

Reputation also matters. Therefore, it helps to obtain referrals. Online reviews can reveal insights into the facility's reputation.

Great residential care homes do more than provide quality care. They help residents thrive on several fronts.