Choosing the right care option for your ageing parent or loved one is one of the most important decisions your family will make. Whether you’re leaning toward a retirement village or considering in-home care, asking the right questions upfront can save you time, stress, and money later.
This guide outlines 15 key questions to help you make an informed, confident decision—tailored to your loved one’s needs, lifestyle, and budget.
Questions to Ask When Considering Home Care
1. What level of care does my loved one actually need?
Start by understanding the support required: Is it personal care, companionship, mobility assistance, or overnight help?
👉 Tip: Request a free in-home assessment from a reputable provider to find out.
Book a free care consultation →Contact Us
2. Can the care be tailored to our family’s routine and preferences?
Look for flexible, person-centred care—not a one-size-fits-all approach.
3. Who are the carers, and how are they vetted?
Ask about background checks, qualifications, personality matching, and First Aid certification.
Read about our carers →Visit Our Carers
4. What happens if our needs change over time?
Your chosen provider should offer scalable services that adapt as conditions evolve (e.g., post-op care now, dementia support later).
5. How much does it cost, and are subsidies available?
Request a clear pricing breakdown and check eligibility for government funding via Te Whatu Ora or Work and Income NZ.
6. Is there continuity of care?
Ask whether your loved one will have the same carer(s) over time—this builds trust, safety, and routine.
7. What support does the family receive?
Great home care includes regular updates, access to a care coordinator, and involvement in planning.
Questions to Ask When Considering a Retirement Village
8. What type of contract am I signing?
Most villages operate under an ORA (Occupation Right Agreement). Ask what happens when the resident leaves or passes away, and how long it takes to settle the estate.
Understand ORAs on the Retirement Commission site →
9. What are the actual costs—upfront and ongoing?
Look beyond the entry fee. What are the weekly fees? What’s the Deferred Management Fee (DMF)? Are there extra charges for services like meals or cleaning?
10. What living options are available?
Some villages offer independent living only, while others have a full continuum of care (e.g., rest home, hospital-level care).
11. Can we personalise the unit?
Find out if your loved one can bring their own furniture, make changes to the interior, or have pets or guests.
12. What is the social culture like?
Visit the village and observe activities. Is there a strong community spirit? Are there group events, outings, or clubs?
13. How is medical support handled?
Are there nurses onsite? What’s the response time in an emergency? What happens if higher-level care is needed?
14. What security and safety features are in place?
Ask about emergency alarms, staff availability, night-time protocols, and building security.
15. What are the rules and restrictions?
Each village has its own policies—on everything from parking to smoking to decorating units. Make sure they align with your loved one’s preferences.
Final Thought: It’s About More Than Just a Checklist
Whether you choose a village or in-home care, the most important thing is that your loved one feels safe, respected, and supported. Use these questions as a starting point for deeper conversations—with providers and within your family.
At Home Carers, we’re happy to walk through all of this with you—even if you’re still unsure which path to take.
👉 Book a free 30-minute consultation
👉 Contact our care team
