How to Conduct a Nursing Home Visit

Visiting your loved one in a nursing home is one of the best ways to make sure they’re receiving the care they deserve. And our nursing home visit checklist can help.

While a visit is a great time to catch up and show your support, it’s also an opportunity to observe how the facility operates and make sure your loved one is safe and comfortable. You have an enormous amount of power to hold companies accountable and give your loved one the care they need.

As a Memphis lawyer focused on nursing home abuse cases, I recommend using a checklist during your visits to make sure nothing is overlooked. It also helps us advocate for you if and when anything goes wrong.

Here’s how to conduct a thorough nursing home visit.

1. Observe the Overall Environment

Start by taking a look at the facility as a whole:

  • Is it clean and free of bad odors?
  • Are common areas well-maintained and uncluttered?
  • Is the temperature comfortable?
  • Is there adequate lighting?
  • Do residents appear happy and engaged?

The condition of the facility can reveal a lot about the level of care being provided.

2. Check Your Loved One’s Personal Care

Pay attention to how your loved one looks and feels:

  • Are they clean and well-groomed?
  • Are they dressed appropriately for the weather?
  • Do they seem well-fed and hydrated?
  • Are there any unexplained bruises, cuts, or other injuries?
  • Do they appear tired, withdrawn, or overmedicated?

These signs can indicate whether they’re receiving proper personal care.

3. Talk to Your Loved One

Ask direct but gentle questions about their experience:

  • Are they comfortable and happy with their care?
  • Do they feel safe with the staff?
  • Do they feel safe around the other residents?
  • Are their needs being met in a timely manner?

Listen carefully to what they say—and what they don’t say. Hesitation or vague answers could be a sign that something is wrong.

4. Observe Staff Interaction

Watch how staff members interact with residents and each other:

  • Are they respectful, patient, and kind?
  • Do they respond quickly to call lights and resident needs?
  • Are there enough staff members to provide proper care?
  • Do they seem overworked or inattentive?

Understaffing or untrained staff can lead to neglect or even abuse.

5. Inspect Your Loved One’s Room

Take a look around their living space:

  • Is it clean and free of clutter?
  • Are bed linens fresh and in good condition?
  • Is personal property, like clothing or glasses, being cared for properly?
  • Are any mobility aids (e.g., walkers, wheelchairs) in good working condition?

Issues with room maintenance can make a big difference in a patient’s comfort and overall safety.

6. Ask About Activities and Meals

Check the schedule for activities and meals:

  • Are there opportunities for socializing and participating in hobbies?
  • Is your loved one encouraged to join activities they enjoy?
  • Are meals nutritious and served on time?
  • Will the staff accommodate special dietary needs?

Your loved one may choose not to engage with all the activities available, but you want to make sure the facility offers them and values community participation. These aspects of care can be essential for mental and physical well-being.

7. Trust Your Instincts

Finally, trust your gut. If something feels off, don’t ignore it:

  • Do you notice a lack of communication from staff or management?
  • Is there a general feeling of disorganization or chaos?
  • Are you getting vague or dismissive answers to your questions?

If you have concerns, document them and consider speaking to an administrator. In addition, if you notice anything specific, you may also want to file a formal complaint.

Your visits are more than just a way to connect with your loved one—they’re a vital part of ensuring their safety and well-being.

By following this checklist, you can help protect your loved one and give yourself peace of mind.

darrell-castleLegal Help with Your Nursing Home Visit Checklist

If you notice signs of neglect or abuse during your visit, don’t hesitate to take action. Speak up, document your concerns using this nursing home visit checklist, and get legal advice if needed.

As a Memphis lawyer, I’ve helped many area families navigate these challenging situations. We hold nursing homes accountable for neglect and abuse, and we consider it a privilege to fight on behalf of our most vulnerable citizens.

Our attorneys have taken on some of the biggest nursing home companies in the world. We fight for you and your loved one every step of the way, and we don’t get paid anything unless and until we win your case.

We handle each situation with award-winning sensitivity and compassion, so you never have to question whether we’re looking out for you and your family’s well-being. Instead, you’ll know from the start you finally have an advocate on your side.

If you notice any signs of nursing home abuse or neglect, don’t hesitate to contact us today or call us at 901-327-2100. We can discuss your situation at no charge, no strings attached.