Choosing an Assisted Living Facility

Deciding whether to put a loved one in an assisted living facility is a big decision. It can be a difficult and even traumatic time for your loved one. As a result, choosing the right facility is essential.

Some Warning Signs

Here are common warning signs shared by facilities to avoid:

  1. Poor attitudes of the nurse’s aides;
  2. Bad opinions of the residents about the facility;
  3. High noise levels in the facility;
  4. The facility discourages you from visiting other facilities before making a decision;
  5. The facility does not allow pop-in or unscheduled visits;
  6. The facility is not adequately staffed; and
  7. The facility does not have adequate life enrichment activities.

Each warning sign is cause for concern. However, if a facility has more than one, then you should look elsewhere. There are also some other considerations.

Costs & Services

You must know the monthly costs and what services are covered by the costs. Assisted living costs are typically lower than the costs of nursing home care. Some facilities have tiered pricing, depending on the level of care/services provided. You should determine if there will be extra charges for some services beyond the normal monthly rate. You then need to decide how to pay for the care. With some exceptions, Medicaid does not pay for assisted living care. However, most modern long-term care insurance policies will. If you are a qualifying veteran or widow, you may qualify for Aid and Attendance benefits to help pay for care.

Care Provided

If the facility meets your budget, look at the quality and level of care provided. Does the facility offer help with the activities of daily living that your loved one needs? Make a list of the areas where your loved one needs assistance and ask how the staff will ensure that those needs are met. If your loved one has a cognitive impairment, are there safeguards in place to protect against wandering? Sometimes it is necessary to administer medications. Does the facility have adequate and proper staff to do so? How does the facility coordinate and ensure access to doctors, dentists or therapists in the community?

Meals & Nutrition

Another important consideration is the food service offered at the facility. Does the food taste good? Does the facility offer balanced meals and a variety of foods? Is the dining facility itself clean and inviting? Is it the kind of environment where your loved one will want to sit, eat and talk with other residents? Does the facility offer room service, if the resident does not feel up to visiting the dining hall? Does it cater to special diets, if necessary?

Quality of Life

What kinds of social activities does the facility offer? Does it have a balanced assortment of activities in the facility to entertain and engage the residents? Does the facility provide access to a variety of activities in the community? Providing access to a variety of activities, both in the facility and in the community, is a great way to promote socialization and increase the quality of life.

Finally, and most importantly, does the facility “feel like” home?

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