Choosing a nursing home can be an overwhelming process. Sometimes, we need to find them very suddenly, and sometimes it’s due to steadily progressing conditions, like Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s. Regardless, you want to make sure that you, or your loved one, has the best clinical care team possible. Thankfully, nursing homes were designed to provide the absolute best care for those who can’t receive it elsewhere. Here are some tips on how to choose a nursing home that is right for you.

Consider the kind of needs you’ll have in the facility. Physical therapy is a good example, as some physical therapists are also certified in specific areas like orthopedics, sports, neurology and more. Some nursing homes are like hospitals, with intensive medical care, as well as physical, occupational, and speech therapy. Others are more like a living community, with communal spaces, kitchens, and recreational activities.

Another thing to consider is the level of care needed. If there are multiple conditions or injuries that will require extra attention, you should look into the facilities that have 24-hour skilled nursing care. These medical professionals can be on call for any unforeseen emergencies, and can administer the proper care in-house, without having to transfer to a hospital.

Knowing how to choose a nursing home is really dependent on how you feel when you get there. More often than not, if the atmosphere feels like one that will make you feel safe and cared for, then it’s a good bet that others feel that way too. Visiting the facilities that you’re hoping to become a resident of is the most important step to finding the perfect nursing home. Trust your gut, and it’ll lead you to the right new home.