An in-person visit is often the only way to determine whether a nursing home meets quality standards. Fortunately, you can narrow your search considerably by viewing nursing home ratings online from official sources.

The criteria below will guide you on what to look for:

• A good reputation for quality care, safety, and resident happiness
• A clean facility free of unpleasant odors
• Liberal visiting hours, preferably 24 hours
• Family participation is encouraged during care, meals, and events
• Specific services you or your loved one needs, such as memory care
• An attractive home-like environment with recreational and social activities
• Sufficient staff for the number of residents and low staff turnover
• Hands-on involvement by the head of nursing and other management staff

Of all the quality criteria, staffing is the most important. Understaffing in nursing homes is the main driver of most nursing home abuse and neglect. A study published in the Journal of the American Medical Directors Association found a statistically significant increase in resident deaths in understaffed nursing homes.

When you are ready to make in-person visits, visit at different times, including when the nursing homes are not expecting you. Talk to residents, family members, nurses, and management staff.