Top Questions for Personal Care Homes

Choosing a personal care home for your loved one is one of the most important decisions you’ll ever make. It’s not just about finding a safe place but also ensuring they receive compassionate care, maintain their dignity, and continue to thrive in a supportive environment.

At Audubon Care Homes, we understand the weight of this decision. We know families often feel overwhelmed, unsure of where to start, or worried they might overlook something crucial. Our senior care team in Metairie is here to guide you through every step of this journey. We want to empower you to ask the right questions for personal care homes, helping you make a truly informed choice that brings peace of mind to your entire family.

1. What Care Services Are Offered?

Every individual has unique needs, preferences, and routines. When asking questions for personal care homes, start by inquiring about the scope of care services and whether they can be tailored to your loved one’s specific situation.

At Audubon Care Homes, we create customized care plans for each resident. Our team works closely with families to understand medical needs, daily living assistance requirements, and personal preferences. For residents with memory challenges, we offer specialized memory care programs that include therapeutic activities designed to support cognitive function and emotional well-being.

2. What Are the Home Features and Amenities?

The physical environment plays a significant role in your loved one’s comfort and quality of life. When touring senior care homes in Metairie, pay attention to the layout, safety features, and overall atmosphere.

Audubon Care Homes are located in peaceful residential neighborhoods, not sprawling institutional buildings. Our homes accommodate just 10 to 16 residents, creating an intimate, family-like setting where everyone knows each other by name. Each home features:

  • Private bedrooms with comfortable furnishings
  • Accessible shared bathrooms designed for safety
  • Spacious common areas for socializing and activities
  • Secure outdoor spaces with beautiful landscaping
  • Easy-to-navigate layouts that promote independence

3. What is the Caregiver-to-Resident Ratio?

One of the most important questions for personal care homes involves staffing levels. A higher caregiver-to-resident ratio means more personalized attention, faster response times, and better overall care.

Many small care homes staff at a 1:4 or even 1:5 ratio, but at Audubon Care Homes, we staff higher whenever possible. Depending on occupancy and resident needs, there may be three caregivers on-site for as few as eight residents. More caregivers mean your loved one receives the attention they deserve—every hour of every day.

4. Are the Caregivers Qualified and Trained?

The quality of care depends entirely on the people providing it. When evaluating senior care in Metairie, ask about caregiver qualifications, training programs, and ongoing education.

At Audubon Care Homes, our caregivers are professionally trained in both general assisted living care and specialized memory care techniques. Every team member is certified in dementia care, ensuring they understand the unique challenges faced by residents with cognitive decline. Beyond credentials, we prioritize hiring compassionate individuals who genuinely care about making a difference in residents’ lives.

5. What is the Cost, and What Does It Include?

Understanding the financial investment is crucial. When researching personal care homes, ask for a detailed breakdown of costs and what services are included in the monthly rate.

At Audubon Care Homes, there are no hidden fees or surprise charges based on level of care. Starting at $6,499 per month, our rate covers:

  • 24/7 care and assistance with all activities of daily living
  • All meals and snacks prepared fresh daily
  • Housekeeping and laundry services
  • Daily therapeutic programs led by licensed therapists
  • Medication management by experienced staff
  • Access to our beauty salon
  • Emergency backup generator

6. What is Daily Life Like for Residents?

Quality of life extends beyond basic care. Ask about daily routines, social activities, and opportunities for engagement when considering senior care in Metairie.

At Audubon Care Homes, we believe staying active, engaged, and connected is just as important as receiving excellent care. Our programs help residents maintain cognitive function, reduce agitation, and foster meaningful connections with others. Some of these include:

  • Music therapy sessions twice weekly, led by licensed therapists
  • Cognitive engagement activities like memory games and storytelling
  • Arts and crafts projects that spark creativity
  • Holiday celebrations and themed events
  • Games like bingo, trivia, and puzzles
  • Pet therapy to provide comfort and joy

7. What Safety Measures Are in Place?

Safety should be a top priority when evaluating any care home. Ask about security features, emergency protocols, and accessibility accommodations.

At Audubon Care Homes, these measures work together to create an environment where residents can move confidently while families have peace of mind:

  • Secure spaces that allow freedom of movement while preventing wandering
  • Non-slip flooring throughout all living areas
  • Wheelchair-accessible layouts with grab bars in bathrooms
  • Well-lit spaces with adjustable lighting options
  • 24/7 supervision by trained caregivers
  • Advanced safety systems and monitoring

9. How Do You Handle Emergencies?

Emergencies can happen at any time. When asking questions for personal care homes, find out what protocols are in place to protect residents during unexpected situations.

Our senior care homes in Metairie are equipped with a backup whole-home generator, ensuring continuous power during outages. Our staff receives regular training in emergency response procedures, and we have established protocols for medical emergencies, natural disasters, and other critical situations.

Additionally, we maintain a 24/7 nurse on call and provide direct lines to our owners, Michelle and Scott Lovitt, PharmD., ensuring families always have access to support when they need it most.

Experience the Audubon Care Homes Difference

At Audubon Care Homes, we’re committed to providing a true home where your loved one can thrive. From our intimate, family-like settings to our comprehensive therapeutic programs and experienced caregivers, every detail is designed to support your family’s peace of mind.

Contact our team and discover how our senior care homes in Metairie can provide the care, comfort, and community your loved one deserves. Because here, we care like family.

Key Takeaways:

  • Look for care homes that create customized care plans tailored to each resident’s unique needs and preferences.
  • Ensure team members are trained and maintain a high caregiver-to-resident ratio for optimal attention.
  • Verify that comprehensive safety measures, emergency protocols, and 24/7 supervision are in place.
  • Seek out care homes offering comprehensive activity programs, therapeutic services, and opportunities for social connection.
  • Choose a care home with clear pricing and open communication channels.