When it comes to assisted living, nothing is more important than knowing your loved one is safe, happy and well cared for. They shouldn’t just have their needs met – that’s the bare minimum. Instead, you want to choose a community with staff who can keep a smile on their face every day. But with so many options out there, how do you find a place that truly feels like home? Here are 11 questions to ask when choosing an assisted living facility.
From daily meals to housekeeping services, it’s important to know which services are included and which ones require an extra fee. Many family members choose an all-inclusive payment model to keep things simple and ensure their loved one has access to everything they need.
While websites can be a wealth of information about an assisted living facility, you want to make sure you have the option to visit in-person. Doing so will allow you to tour the area, chat with actual staff members and current residents and get a feel for whether it’s the right fit.
Depending on the situation, your loved one may not have the ability to contact you directly. That’s why it’s important to choose a facility where staff can keep close communication with you, providing updates and information about your family member. You should know that they will respond to your inquiries immediately – for your loved one’s well being and your own peace of mind.
It’s important to have connection at every phase of life, and many assisted living communities offer opportunities for residents to socialize, enjoy each other’s company and have fun. Look for a community with events, clubs and classes that occur regularly throughout the year.
Assisted living facilities have standard requirements for admission. These may include age or assisted living health guidelines as approved by a family physician. Most communities will have this information available on their website or via a quick phone call.
While cost is an important consideration, it’s perhaps even more important to choose a facility that is transparent about what it costs. You should be able to discuss details of payment structure, monthly costs, added fees and more – before signing any agreements.
In addition to daily care and support, your family member will likely need access to additional medical care while living in an assisted living facility. This may include routine appointments, easy access to a pharmacy, and options for more specialized care, as needed. Ask whether these services are easily available on campus or a short distance away.
Visiting your loved one at their assisted living facility should be a special time – not stressful and difficult to arrange. Find out if the community has reasonable visiting hours, as well as accommodations nearby where you can stay when visiting.
Team members are the heart and soul of any assisted living community, so it’s important to learn about the staff who work at the community. What credentials and training do they have? What is their reputation? You want your loved one to be with care providers who are friendly, experienced and attentive.
Whether going to an out-of-town doctor’s appointment or doing a little shopping, your family member may want or need occasional transportation. Ask whether there is on-campus and off-campus transportation available to residents.
Of all the questions to ask when choosing an assisted living facility, the last question is one you need to ask yourself. Does this community truly feel like home? Ask whether your family member can bring their own pieces of home with them, such as books, decorations and keepsakes. You’re looking for somewhere that feels warm, peaceful and safe with the added comforts of home.
You can’t always be there for your loved one 24/7, but you can find a place that is. Advent Christian Village is a senior living community located on more than 1,200 breathtaking acres along the historic Suwannee River in North Central Florida. Our skilled team is always helpful, friendly and reliable, so you can trust that we are caring for your family member as you would.
Be confident in the choice you make for assisted living – send us a message today to learn more.
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