Choosing Assisted Living

Choosing to move to an assisted living community can be a difficult decision and seem overwhelming. Some questions to ask to help find the best place to meet needs might include:

• Is the atmosphere warm, inviting and home-like?

• Does the staff interact with you while touring?

• Are staff members interacting with the residents and calling them by name?

• Do the residents appear happy?

• Are you able to speak with the residents regarding their impression of the community?

• What would a resident's daily schedule include? How much independence is supported?

• Are visitors welcome at any time?

• Is the building free from odors and appears clean?

• Is there a good mix of natural and artificial lighting?

• What are the admission requirements?

• Is there a written care plan?

• Is family input/involvement encouraged?

• Are medical services provided? How are services offered?

• What happens if additional services are needed? What would those services cost?

• Does a dietician approve the resident meal plan?

• What personal belongings can a resident bring?

• What are the billing, payment and credit policies?

• Where are medications administered?

• Is there assistance given when transitioning to the community?

• Are staff members available for assistance 24/7?