1. Identify your needs. Our Needs Assessment Survey can help summarize your thoughts about what you should be looking for.

2. Prioritize. All nursing homes are different. Determine which items are most important to you and shop with those points in mind.

3. Evaluate the financial position of the patient. Determine how you will pay for care and accumulate the income and asset financial information you will need when applying for admittance.

4. Consult with the individual's physician to determine his or her medical needs.

5. Use the Nursing Home INFO search tools to narrow your search based on location. In the future, additional search options will be available.

6. Select your preferred facilities and generate a list of facilities in your area of interest.

7. Many facilities also have websites.

8. Contact the facilities of interest to schedule tours.

9. Use your Needs Assessment Survey results to verify whether the facility you select meets your needs.

10. Start early! Some homes may have waiting lists. If possible, begin your search before you really need to.

11. Remember to thank the facility staff for improving the process by supporting Nursing Home INFO!