As people age or suffer health problems, they may need assistance in daily living tasks or more intensive care a nursing home can provide.

Families making decisions about placing a loved one in an assisted living facility or a nursing home can find choosing the right facility for their family member a daunting task.

Here are some resources:

• Choosing a Nursing Home: Comprehensive guide developed by Medicare;
  
  
• Can I Get Help with Nursing Home Costs?: Guide for qualifying for Medicaid when you or your spouse needs care;
  
  
• Compare Nursing Homes in Your Region: Medicare Nursing Home Compare home page. While the data alone should not be the only source for choosing a nursing home, the information provides compliance with regulations during the last state inspection, provider demographics, i.e., location, size, and comparison of resident conditions.
  
  This information will allow you to compare nursing homes in specific regions or geographical areas. It can be used to help you decide what type of questions you may want to ask when investigating/visiting a nursing home.