When choosing an assisted living facility, it’s important to consider many factors. The key is to visit the facility at different times (like during activities and mealtimes) to observe the staff’s interaction with residents. A clean, welcoming environment speaks to a well-managed facility that prioritizes the care of its residents. Inquire about the staff-to-resident ratio and turnover rate.
Location
The location of an assisted living facility is important, especially if your loved one will be visiting family and friends regularly. A residence that is too far away can add up to hours of round-trip driving time, limiting visits and negatively impacting your loved one’s quality of life. While on the tour, pay attention to how well the facility is maintained. If the staff seems to neglect cleaning or if there are unpleasant smells, this could be a red flag.
Also, note how much you’ll have to pay monthly or day for care. Many facilities require a deposit, but others may charge a flat fee or follow other payment systems. Be sure to ask about all costs and services and request a contract to review thoroughly.
Caregiver-to-Resident Ratio
Assisted living is an option for seniors who require assistance with activities of daily living but do not need constant medical care or around-the-clock supervision. It’s typically less expensive than a nursing home and is more of a personal residence than a hospital-like setting. Unfortunately, many senior living facilities are understaffed, which leads to inadequate care and higher costs. Caregivers are often racing to the end of their shift and have little time for the needs of residents. One way to avoid staffing shortages is to use a tool that helps facility managers connect with local pRN healthcare professionals who can fill shifts days or hours ahead of schedule. This can help ensure residents receive the quality care they deserve.
Resident Reviews
Family reviews provide valuable insights into the quality of care and experience assisted living residences provide. They are typically easily accessible online and offer an understanding of how residents feel about their living experiences at each home. Assisted living facilities may also conduct resident satisfaction surveys, which can help you narrow down your options. Fortunately, browsing websites and clicking this link will help you locate the top assisted care facilities.
Once you have weighed your options based on research and online reviews, visiting each facility in person is important. It will allow you to consider variables that should have been mentioned online, such as the overall environment and culture of the community. You can also observe how the residents interact with one another during their daily activities.
Cost
If your parent chooses an assisted living facility in the boonies, you must drive there to visit. This can be a major barrier to family visits, and your parents may quickly become bored in such a remote setting. Ask about the facility’s licensing and carefully review its contract and residence rules. Look at fees, services included, rate increases and provisions regarding evictions. Consider whether the facility accepts Medicaid, a joint federal-state healthcare program that covers millions of low-income Americans, including seniors. If it does, this can significantly lower your cost of living if you can’t afford the full range of care. It would help if you also inquired about private long-term care insurance, which can provide additional protections and benefits.
Staff
Whether or not a caregiving staff is qualified and experienced is crucial. While touring an assisted living facility, you should ask about their certifications and staff-to-resident ratio. You should also talk to staff members and gauge their friendliness and attentiveness. Other auxiliary personnel, such as admissions staff, dining coordinators and housekeeping coordinators, can also play key roles in an assisted living home. They are the front-door representatives of the business, and their presence can be felt throughout the facility. Ask questions about the quality of food, special dietary accommodations and activities schedule. You can even attend an event or stay overnight to get a feel for the community. This way, you can find the best care for your loved one. It’s all about ensuring their safety and happiness.
