California Senior Care Home Tour Checklist
15 Essential Questions to Ask Before Signing an RCFE Admission Agreement
Facility Name: ___________________________
Tour Date: _________________
Administrator / Tour Guide: ___________________________
California CDSS License # (9 digits): _________________
- Staffing Ratios & Overnight Oversight
- What is your direct caregiver-to-resident ratio during the day, evening, and night?
(For 6-bed homes, look for at least 1:3 daytime. Ask if night staff is an awake shift.) - How long has your current caregiving staff worked at this specific facility?
(Low turnover ensures consistent routines, especially for memory care.) - Who manages and dispenses medications, and what Title 22 training have they completed?
(Ensure staff has documented medication training approved by the California DSS.)
- Cost Transparency & Fee Point “Creep”
- What is the complete monthly base rate, and what routine care services does it include?
(Confirm whether 3 meals, laundry, housekeeping, and basic transfers are covered.) - What specific care needs trigger tiered price increases or hourly add-on charges?
(Request the written fee schedule for incontinence care, nighttime assistance, and insulin.) - What is the community move-in fee or deposit, and under what terms is it refundable?
(California law requires all non-refundable fees to be stated in the admission agreement.)
- Health Acuity Limits & Retention (Aging in Place)
- Does the facility hold approved CDSS waivers for Dementia and Hospice care?
(Without approved waivers, an RCFE cannot legally care for end-of-stage residents.) - What clinical or behavioral conditions would trigger an involuntary discharge?
(Ask about two-person lift requirements, wandering risks, feeding tubes, and wound care.) - What emergency hospital is used for 911 calls, and how quickly is family contacted?
(Verify emergency protocols and whether a caregiver accompanies the resident.)
- Sensory Environment, Nutrition & Resident Dignity
- Are meals cooked fresh on-site, and are dietary modifications accommodated?
(Review the posted Title 22 weekly menu for diabetic, pureed, or low-sodium options.) - Check cleanliness and odors in common living areas and resident bathrooms.
(Be alert to strong chemical masking sprays covering urine or stale odors.) - Observe current residents: Are they dressed, clean, and active in living areas?
(Watch for whether residents are engaged or left unattended in bed during the day.) - What are the visiting hours and ongoing family communication routines?
(Ensure visits are flexible and ask if staff provides regular text updates.)
Favor Living • Senior Care Directory & Informational Resource
Verify facility licenses directly at: cdss.ca.gov