Publish date: 12 June 2026
Choosing an Aged Care Home is about finding somewhere your loved one will feel safe, comfortable and truly at home. A visit is your chance to see what life could feel like day to day — not just what’s on offer, but how it feels to be there.
In this blog, we will walk you through what to look for and observe during a visit to an aged care facility, empowering you to make an informed decision for your family.
The importance of touring Aged Care Homes
Visiting an aged care home is important for getting a feel for the spaces, the staff, and the quality of care your loved one will receive. It is a great way to go beyond the surface and experience the daily life 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 .
To make sure you are prepared, bring a list of questions or a checklist. Book tours ahead of time so you can take your time and see each home at its best.
What to look for when visiting Aged Care Homes
The location and surrounding area
When touring an aged care home, it is important to look beyond the facilities themselves. Take a drive or a walk to see what is nearby. You can also explore the area on a map to get a broader sense of the surroundings. Consider how close the home is to family, friends, public transport, and the places you will want to visit regularly. Proximity to the things that matter most can make a meaningful difference to your loved one's sense of connection and wellbeing.Staying close to familiar places can help your loved one feel connected to their life, routine, and the people who matter most.
For example, if resort-style living close to the beach sounds like the right fit, Bethanie Beachside Yanchep could be worth a visit.
Facilities and amenities
The facilities and amenities are among the most important things to consider when touring aged care homes, as they give you a real sense of where your loved one will be living day to day.
When visiting, take note of how the rooms are decorated and furnished. Find out whether residents are welcome to bring their own furniture and personal belongings, and ask to see the bedrooms so you can get a feel for the space.
Consider the home's overall design: look for accessible layouts, secure entry and exit points, and features that support safety and independence. Take time to explore the common areas, too. Are they inviting and well maintained? Are there gardens or outdoor spaces for residents to enjoy? Do the facilities feel modern and cared for?
If luxurious surroundings with high-end fittings and elegant furnishings are a priority, come and visit Bethanie Como .
Staff members
Pay close attention to how staff greet residents during your tour. Notice whether they are warm, respectful, and genuinely engaged. Do they know residents by name? Do they take the time to listen and respond with care? The people providing day-to-day support will have the greatest impact on your loved one's experience, so trust your instincts about whether the team feels right.These small moments often shape how safe, supported, and known someone feels each day.
General atmosphere and cleanliness
A good aged care home should feel like exactly that: a home. When visiting, observe the overall atmosphere . Are residents smiling, chatting, and participating in activities? Is there a sense of community that is friendly and inclusive? A culture of respect and connection is just as important as the physical environment.
Notice whether residents have access to comfortable, purposeful spaces, whether they are joining in activities, resting privately, or socialising by choice.
It is also worth paying attention to cleanliness and presentation. Is the environment bright, well maintained, and free of strong odours? The facility should feel welcoming and well cared for, not clinical or sterile.
Ask yourself: is this somewhere your loved one would feel truly at home ?
Book a tour at Bethanie
The best way to find the right aged care home for your loved one is to experience it in person . Bethanie warmly welcomes families to visit any of our homes across Perth and the South West, so you can see for yourself the care, community, and warmth we offer every day.
Find Aged Care locations and book a tour today.
