Choosing the right care home for your loved one is a big decision. It’s about more than just a facility — it’s about finding a community where your parent, partner, or friend can feel safe, respected, and truly at home. One of the best ways to evaluate whether a care home is the right fit is by visiting in person and asking thoughtful questions.

To help you make an informed decision, we’ve compiled a list of the top questions to ask when visiting an aged care home.

 

1. What levels of care are provided? And are care plans personalised and reviewed regularly?

It’s important to understand whether the care home offers the type of support your loved one needs now, as well as what might be needed in the future. Be sure to ask about all areas; from personal care (e.g. bathing, dressing, grooming), medical care and medication management. It may seem daunting, but it is also beneficial to ask about what support they offer for dementia or other cognitive conditions too, as well as end-of-life and palliative care services.

 

2. What are the staff-to-resident ratios and qualifications?

The quality and availability of staff directly impacts the level of care and attention residents receive. Find out:

 

3. What does a typical day look like for residents?

Ask about the daily schedule or activity calendar planned for residents. A vibrant community should offer social activities, outings, and entertainment. These should reflect the residents’ interests and abilities, promoting well-being and engagement. There should also be opportunities for physical activity as well as quiet time and personal space. Where possible, families should also be encouraged to participate and be a part of their loved one’s routine.

 

4. What are the meals like?

A well-balanced diet and good nutrition is vital to our health, happiness and wellbeing. When visiting a potential place of care ask about what type of food is served; whether the meals are varied, flexible and accommodate to individual dietary needs. Check whether meals are prepared on-site, and if the produce is fresh and varied. Some homes will even invite you to sample a meal — take the opportunity if it’s offered!

 

5. What are the living arrangements like?

A personal visit can tell you a lot and is an opportunity for you to ask questions and observe the details that matter most, from the staff interactions to the overall atmosphere. During your tour make note of features like cleanliness and safety features (like handrails and call buttons) among other elements. Be sure to ask:

 

6. How does the care home support family involvement?

Staying connected with your family is highly important, and the care home should encourage this as much as possible. Ask about the visiting hours and policies. Whether there are events or meetings for families, and how communication is handled, will you receive regular updates? Strong family involvement often leads to better outcomes and a more inclusive environment.

 

7. What are the costs and what’s included?

Understanding the fees upfront avoids future surprises. Good questions to ask revolve around the basic fees involved and what they cover. For example, you could ask whether there are additional charges for services or activities. Ask how is payment structured (whether it’s daily, weekly, or monthly etc)? In many instances you may be eligible for government funding or financial assistance, it is worth checking with the care provider whether this is available. A reputable care home will be transparent and willing to explain all costs clearly.

 

8. What happens if my loved one’s care needs change?

As time goes on, needs change and may increase. You or your loved one may require more specialised support.  Some key questions to ask the care provider are:

Continuity of care can reduce stress and promote stability for residents and families alike.

 

Trust Your Instincts

Finally, pay attention to your gut feeling. Do residents appear happy and well cared for? Are staff friendly and responsive? Does the environment feel welcoming?

Choosing the right aged care home is a deeply personal journey. Taking the time to ask the right questions can help you feel more confident and secure in your decision — knowing your loved one will be treated with the respect, kindness, and dignity they deserve.

Download our free checklist to take with you on your next care home visit.

Need help or want to book a tour at your local care home?

Our team is here to answer your questions and support you every step of the way. Contact our advice line today or learn more about life at Radius.

When the care you provide is good enough for the families of your staff, friends, and your own kin, you know you’re doing it right. Radius Care founder Brien Cree shares the story that guides Radius Care’s philosophy of ‘Exceptional People, Exceptional Care’. 

As for so many of us, my mum was always my rock in life. She taught me how to chase my dreams, how to think independently, and how to stand up for myself. She also taught me through our own personal experiences how important it is to advocate not just for ourselves, but for those we love. Especially our elders. This is the whole reason Radius Care exists, and it underpins the way we operate to this day.

My mother wasn’t expected to survive after she had a severe stroke and spent three weeks in a coma. Although she was left paralysed on the right-hand side of her body and was unable to speak, she defied the odds. After time in rehab, she could make herself understood and get around in an electric wheelchair – but she still needed long term care.

Unfortunately, Mum wasn’t well cared for in her care home. To see her lose her dignity and independence was heartbreaking. The way she was treated was demeaning and traumatic to witness. I used to sit in the car and cry after each visit.

I knew I could improve healthcare for Mum and other aging Kiwis, and so began the hard work to build Radius Care. I started with one care home and today we have 23 locations up and down the country.

My mum spent her last years being looked after at one of our care homes, living with confidence, connection and meaning in the community she knew and loved.

Our residents and their quality of life are at the heart of everything we do. When they can’t speak up for themselves, our staff advocate for them. Caring for our residents is not a job, it is a responsibility, one that we all take incredibly seriously. I love it when I get calls directly from our carers with ideas or requests for new equipment that they believe will make our residents’ lives better.

I know that we’ve got it right when our staff members choose to have their own loved ones in our care. For me, it was a real affirmation of all I’ve worked towards when my brother-in-law chose Radius Care Matua to provide palliative care for my sister in her final days. He knew that our staff would treat her like their own family.

It’s a tale very familiar to us now, with many of our team members having family living within the Radius Care community. We look forward to sharing more of their stories with you soon.