5 Tips for visiting and touring aged care homes

Have you booked a tour at an aged care home but aren’t sure what to look for when you visit? It’s a common question. Many people notice the surface-level details like neat gardens or bright rooms, but the things that really matter go much deeper. 

Visiting an aged care home is about getting a feel for the spaces, the staff, and the quality of care your loved one will receive. To help you, we’ve put together five practical tips to guide your next visit.

See how staff interact with residents

One of the top things you should look for when touring an aged care home is how the staff interact with residents. We recommend paying attention to how employees engage with individuals, noting their communication, whether they’re smiling, how they listen and how patient they are. 

Are they encouraging independence? Do they seem genuinely caring rather than rushed? A warm approach shows that the home values person-centred care, where residents’ preferences and dignity are respected. You want staff who are trained to build real relationships, creating an environment where residents feel seen and supported every day.

Look beyond the facilities

While the physical aspects of the property are super important, the day-to-day experience is something you should focus on too. Ask about the daily routines, lifestyle activities, and how residents spend their time at the aged care home. 

Are there opportunities for social connection, exercise, and to pursue hobbies? Is there a sense of community rather than just a series of routine tasks? Every resident has unique needs, so it’s important to understand how the home caters to varying levels of care. 

Ask about staffing ratios, access to nursing care, physiotherapy, or specialised support for conditions like dementia or mobility issues. Find out how the home monitors health, manages medications, and ensures residents’ safety while promoting independence. 

For families considering HillView Care, the on-site physiotherapy team and tailored wellness programs provide personalised support, helping residents maintain mobility, strength, and overall well-being.

Check the atmosphere and culture

You want a home where residents feel comfortable and happy, not just cared for. When visiting, notice the atmosphere: are residents smiling, chatting, and enjoying activities? Is there a friendly, inclusive vibe? Culture matters, a supportive and respectful community is key to a positive aged care experience. 

Consider flexibility and communication

Finally, pay attention to how the home communicates with families and accommodates their needs. Can they easily answer your questions? Are they transparent about care plans, costs, and policies? 

Flexibility in visiting times, personalised care plans, and regular updates are signs of a home that really values families’ peace of mind. 

Bonus tip: Take your time and trust your instincts

This isn’t a decision that should be rushed. Bring a checklist of questions, take notes, and if possible, visit more than once. Pay attention to both what you see and what you feel. Sometimes your instincts about the people and environment can be just as good as the facts and figures.

Make a confident choice for your loved one

Visiting an aged care home is a fantastic opportunity to see beyond the surface and understand the everyday experience of residents. By observing staff interactions, lifestyle activities, care support, culture, and communication, you can make an informed decision that ensures your loved one will feel right at home.

At HillView Care Merrimac and Ashmore, we take pride in creating a warm, engaging, and supportive environment where residents live life to the fullest. From personalised wellness programs and physiotherapy support to diverse social activities and events, we focus on person-centred care that feels warm and welcoming. 

If you’re considering aged care for your family member, we invite you to book a tour and experience HillView Care for yourself. Meet our friendly staff, explore our beautiful facilities, and see how our approach to care prioritises connection, wellbeing, and independence. 

Bookings are essential, and our team is happy to answer any questions to help guide your decision.