If you are examining nursing homes to place a loved one, look at the fingernails of the residents living there at the moment. Long fingernails (especially on men) would likely indicate that the home is either understaffed or does not care enough to do such a small task.

Also stick around for awhile. Ask for an activity calendar and peek in on some activities. I’m an activity director and healthcare says very little about the quality of life offered. Of course being comfortable physically is very important, but if residents sit in their room all day, their risk of depression skyrockets, simply because they have no engagement. No matter cognitive or physical level, a decent activity program should offer engagement to each and every resident- social, sensory, intellectual, physical, and religious.