Positive Ageing - Ask Questions Before Choosing A Rest Home
It is sometimes difficult to know what questions to ask when looking for a rest home for an elderly relative.
The choice may depend on the level of care required and the availability of a bed or a room. But Consumer NZ says certification audits show that rest homes do not always meet all the required criteria.
Consumer has drawn up a rest home checklist setting out the sort of questions you should ask, covering such things as staff levels, facilities and extras, and hidden costs.
The checklist is available, free, on the Consumer website. It can be printed and used to help you assess the rest homes you’re considering.
There is a list of ‘certified providers’ of rest home services on the Ministry of Health website.