How To Choose The Right Assisted Living Community

One of the most important decisions is to find the right assisted living facility for your loved one. The facility should not only offer quality elder care, but should also make your loved one happy and comfortable.

Here are a few things that you have to look in to choose the right assisted living community: 

• Make sure the community feels and smells fresh; look past the furnishings, corners, baseboards and windows. Ensure you get full details regarding the type of maintenance, laundry procedures and specifics of what is available at what cost. Odors in the property may indicate a temporary lack of cleanliness, though odors throughout the community is something serious and you could ask the manager what may be causing the problem.   

• It would be a good idea to schedule your tour during community events; note if the activities and events are well attended and whether the staff and your loved one will enjoy them. Also ensure that they also have trips and outings away from the community; if it is important for you ask also about the religious services.

• Next it is necessary to make sure there are outdoor areas that are available for the residents to enjoy the nice sunny day outdoors. It is also necessary to ensure that the area is safe and secure. The property should also house outdoor activities.  

• Pay attention to staff friendliness and observe if a number of staff listen and make eye contact with the residents. Also make sure you get an introduction to the management team and understand the goals of the property; make sure you have confidence in the property staff.

• Make sure you and your loved elder have lunch or dinner along with the residents; this would not only give you a sample of their cuisine, but also give you a chance to meet some of the residents. Also discuss what happens if the resident is unable to make it for a meal to the dining room. 

• Safety and security features offer a peace of mind and is very important for the senior and caregiver. Make sure the bathrooms are safe and have grab bars at convenient locations. It is also necessary to make find out how the residents can contact the staff in an emergency. Also find out about other safety features available in living quarters and throughout the community.  Make sure if there are registered nurses on site and the community assist or manage residents' medication needs. Also do not forget to ask specific questions about any other medical needs that must be met for you or your loved one.

• Next ask about the specific move-out criteria; this is very important as elders may not like to move out often. Also ensure that they will be given at least 30 days notice to move out of the community. 

• Next ask questions about personal care like bathing options and preferences and notice if the current residents of the community are   dressed appropriately, clean shaven with well-groomed hair and nails. Also ensure the staff treats the residents with dignity, respect and a smile.

Last but most important imagine your loved ones and you living in the community; consider various points before making sure the community living is for you and your loved one.