Questions to Ask To Choose The Right Assisted Living Facility
The search to find the perfect assisted living community to meet the needs of your loved one can be daunting. It is a complex decision making process that can take a lot of time and patience. Being prepared with a set of questions will help you better evaluate and compare the different communities and ultimately make an informed decision.
Ask the assisted living staff the following questions to help you find a senior living community that's right for your loved one:
What activities are scheduled daily/weekly/monthly? May I see a schedule?
It’s a good idea to visit during an activity so you can see the level of participation by residents and see how the staff interacts with them.
Do you provide 3 well-balanced meals a day, 7 days a week?
Ask to see a menu and look to make sure it is both nutritionally balanced and varied. We suggest eating a meal during your visit to sample the cuisine.
May I speak with a resident about how they like the community? How about a resident's family member?
Getting inside the minds of residents and their families will help you decide whether a community is a good fit. You can cross off #2 and #3 by talking to a resident over a meal.
What types of apartments are available and at what costs? Studio, one bedroom, two bedroom?
Properties have all sorts of living environments available, so asking which units are available is key to deciding if the community is a fit for your loved one.
Do you provide transportation to doctor's appointments, worship services, shopping, or other desired activities?
Confirm that the community has their own specialized vehicle, so group outings, activities, or appointments are easily scheduled.
Does the community have pets and/or allow residents to bring their own pets?
It is important to consider not separating the loved ones from their pets, as their health could be affected. Do not forget to ask about the rules for having a pet within the community.
Can I visit my loved one at any time?
Be clear on the visitation guidelines and hours! It's important to consider that each assisted living facility has its own rules, and probably has visiting hours to keep harmony in the community. Ask if it's necessary to have an appointment to make a visit.
Are the apartments furnished? What should or shouldn't my loved one bring?
If apartments are furnished, it may make it easier to move your senior loved one in. Or, if not, your senior may find comfort in bringing furniture from their current home into their new home.
Is there a written plan of care for each resident? How often is it reviewed and updated?
Delivering quality assisted living care requires understanding what that means for each resident, and a thorough health assessment provides the starting point for an individual care plan.
What services are included in the monthly fees and what is extra? Telephone, cable, laundry?
Prepare a list of services that you consider important to know if they have an extra cost or if they are included in the cost of the assisted living facilities.
Can I get a copy of your residency agreement?
This document should include (at minimum) services provided, fees, extra charges, move-in and move-out criteria, staffing, and house rules. Review it thoroughly to avoid any surprises down the line.
Getting clear answers to these questions will be a good start, but not everything can be answered by the staff. You also have to trust yourself and your instincts. Ask yourself these questions after your visit:
- Was I greeted warmly when I entered the community?
- Did the residents seem happy, comfortable and well cared for?
- Was the décor attractive and homey?
- Were staff members friendly and dressed appropriately?
- Can I see my loved one fitting in with the other residents?
- Is the community clean, well lit, and appropriately heated/cooled?
At the end of the day, the most important question to ask yourself is, “Will my mom or dad thrive in this environment?” If the answer is yes, your search is over.