There is much research involved in selecting an assisted living home for your loved one. It is not a quick decision. As much care, thought, and due diligence should go into the process of choosing the right home as in purchasing a new home or car. The location, facilities, and persons caring for you or your family member could mean the difference between a great experience and a not-so-good one.
A good place to start is to visit the assisted living homes that you have, first and foremost, carefully researched. Visit with the residents and caregivers and ask for any brochures or information offered. Frequent the home at various times throughout the day for several weeks. This will allow you to get the best impression of the assisted living facility.
When you tour the facilities, pay close attention to the overall attitudes and friendliness of the caregivers and residents.
Be sure to inquire if the home is licensed and which federal and/or state and regulations apply to the operation of the facility and care of the residents. Be bold enough to ask if the facility is in compliance with those laws.To aid in your search, check for the following when considering an assisted living home:
- Overall level of safety in the facility
- Proper lighting
- Handrails, call light system, and emergency pull cords
- Exits clearly marked and accessible
- Overall level of security
- Gated or locked facility
- Lockable doors in each unit or room
- Private or semi-private rooms
- Common lounge or living areas
- Television and telephone available
- Level of assistance available to the resident
- Low staff-to-resident ratio
- Nearest hospital or urgent care
- Doctors or nurses on staff or on-call
- Dietician available
- Nutritious meals and snacks
- Accommodation for therapeutic diets
- Monthly costs and services included
- Billing, payment, and credit policy
- Flexible daily schedule
- Cleanliness
- Overall attitude and friendliness
- Appearance of staff and residents
- Visiting hours
- Admission requirements
- Size of the facility
- Does the facility allow pets?
Most assisted living facilities will create an individualized care plan for each resident upon admission. The care plan details the customized services and needs required by the resident and guaranteed by the facility. The care plan is updated on a regular basis to ensure the resident receives the proper care as his or her condition changes. A review and/or revision of the care plan every 90-180 days is a sign of a high-quality facility.
Perhaps the most important thing in the selection of an assisted living home is involving your loved ones in the selection process and final decision. This will allow you to help maintain your loved one's dignity and independence - the overarching goal of an assisted living home.
Selecting an Assisted Living Home