How to Choose an Assisted Living Community
Last Updated: July 15, 2019
The more careful comparison, planning and research you do, the more likely you are to find an assisted living community that best fits the needs of you, your parents or senior loved ones.
What kinds of things should you look for or questions should you ask while searching for an assisted living community? Use this checklist:
11 Important Things to Ask During Your Assisted Living Visit
- Can a resident choose the level of services available? Can those services change as a resident’s needs change?
- Is there a nurse on-site 24/7/365?
- Is there a waiting list, and if so, how long is it?
- What are some of the activities available to residents?
- What are your billing and payment policies and what is included in the monthly fee?
- What does each type of assisted living apartment cost?
- What experience and training do your staff members have?
- What is the overnight staffing level?
- What is the ratio of residents to staff members?
- What is your discharge policy?
- What sizes and styles of apartments are available?
Important Things to Watch for on Your Assisted Living Visit
- Apartments have adequate living space for your needs
- Building exteriors are attractive and well-maintained
- Common and public areas are clean and odor-free
- Meals are appetizing and nutritious
- Outdoor grounds are well maintained
- Residents seem active, comfortable and engaged
- Safety equipment, including grab rails, smoke detectors and sprinklers, is present and up-to-date
- Staff members are friendly and warm, even on unannounced visits
- The community’s design is easy to navigate, even for those with limited mobility
- The community’s state certification is in order and its inspection history reveals no major concerns
Looking for assisted living? Compare your options on SeniorAdvisor.com.
SeniorAdvisor.com Staff
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