Comparing Nursing Homes

We don't like to think about it. But there comes a time when the infirmities of the body make it impossible for us to properly care for ourselves or for those we love. A nursing home is necessary but which one should we choose? The Medicare Nursing Home Compare web site lists nursing homes all over the country. They can be searched by name, geography or proximity. You can get a general overview of several nursing homes or a 5 page (that's what it was for the 6 I looked at)report of comparisons with national averages, violations if any and what type, and quantity (nursing hours) of care.