Choosing the Right Assisted Living Community: Questions to Ask

If your loved one starts to have trouble with the activities of daily living like cleaning, cooking, eating, getting dressed or remembering to take medication it might be time to consider an assist living community. Trained staff is on hand to provide personal assistance with bathing, dressing, grooming, eating and more residents to give residents the help they need to remain independent. The rest of the day, they’re free to do what they want. Plus, assisted living communities offer a wide variety of events and activities.

To find the best assisted living community for yourself or your loved one, it’s important to start researching them before an emergency requires a move. Otherwise, you could have to choose a community based on availability. To help you with choosing senior care in Johnson County, here’s a guide with steps to take, things to look for and questions to ask.

Choosing an Assisted Living Community

Once you start looking at communities, you might be surprised to see how many options you have. Here’s a simple way to narrow down your focus:

Location: Where’s the best area for your loved one? Should they live close where they currently live the right choice, or is it better to be closer to you or other family members?

Online research: Once you’ve decided on a general location, check out community websites and make a list. Their websites will give you a feel for things like their mission and values. Also, consider how much personal assistance they provide and the amenities and services they offer. You can also explore their Facebook page and other resources.

Phone research: Calling a community will immediately answer two important questions — how much does it cost and are they accepting new residents? If they’re not accepting new residents, ask about their wait list and how it works. As for cost, it can vary significantly based on the contract you choose and the needs of your loved one. While it may be hard to pin down an exact amount, you should at least get a price range.

Tour: Once you’ve narrowed down your list, schedule some tours with your loved one. While you’re there, talk to residents and team members. They know the place best. Also, make a second surprise visit. Dropping in unannounced on weekday evening may give you a totally different impression.

What to Look for in Assisted Living

When evaluating your assisted living options, here are some important things to keep an eye out for that will go a long way in helping you decide how to choose an assisted living community:

• Is the neighborhood safe, quiet and pleasant?
• Do you like the location and outward look of the community? Are the grounds well maintained and attractive?
• Is there convenient parking, including handicapped spaces?
• Were you and your loved one warmly welcomed?
• Is your tour guide friendly and do they listen to your needs and answer your questions?
• Do the team members call residents by name and interact with them?
• Is the décor well kept, attractive and homelike?
• How many common spaces are there for residents and are they being used?
• Can you sample the food?
• Is there a fitness center with exercise and wellness classes?
• Are there secure outdoor spaces or courtyards available?
• Is there a kitchen area with a refrigerator, sink and cooking element?
• Does the residence have good natural and artificial lighting?
• Are the hallways well-lit and easy to navigate, with handrails for safety?
• Are doorways, hallways and rooms accommodating to wheelchairs and walkers?
• Does the residence have good natural and artificial lighting?
• Is the dining room clean and attractive?
• Do residents socialize with each other and appear happy and comfortable?

Assisted Living Questions to Ask

Now that you know what to note on your tour, here’s a list of questions to ask to help determine if the community you’re touring meets your assisted living selection criteria.

Living Spaces

• How many different floor plans are available?
• Are the assisted living apartments private or semiprivate?
• Can my loved one personalize their home with photos, artwork, mementos and other furnishings?
• Are laundry and housekeeping services included?
• Is there a 24/7 emergency response system?
• Are utilities and cable TV services included?
• Are visitors welcome at any time?

Assisted Living and Health Care Services

• Is an initial assessment of needs conducted and a written care plan developed? How often are needs reassessed?
• What if my loved one’s health needs change and they require a higher level of care?

Food and Dining Services

• How many meals are provided?
• Are the meals nutritious and chef-prepared using fresh ingredients?
• Are meals served restaurant-style or buffet-style?
• Are snacks available?
• Are specific dietary needs or special requests met?
• Can I join my family member for meals?

Amenities, Services and Social Activities

• Are there regular cultural, educational, recreational and social programs?
• Are there organized group outings for meals, cultural and community events?
• Is there a full-time activities director on staff?
• Does the community offer faith services?
• Is scheduled transportation available for things like medical appointments and shopping?
• What other services are available, such as on-site banking or a beauty salon and spa?

Team Members

• What’s the staff-to-resident ratio?
• What type of training do team members receive and how often?
• What’s the turnover rate of team members?

Assisted Living Costs and Finances

• Is there a community fee and what is the monthly fee?
• What are the billing and payment policies?
• Are all services and amenities included in the monthly fee?
• Under what circumstances might costs go up?
• When could a contract be terminated and what are the refund policies?
• What if my loved one has long-term care insurance?
• Will the community help with the paperwork involved with getting Medicare, Medicaid, VA benefits and other sources of assistance?
• How do I pay for additional health care services, such as skilled nursing, if it’s needed temporarily?

Santa Marta is Your Senior Living Resource

You can learn more about Santa Marta living options including independent living, assisted living, memory care, skilled nursing, rehabilitation and respite care. Experience the vibrant lifestyle our independent living residences offer. We also take direct admissions to our exceptional health services. If you or your loved one need support, there’s no need to wait. To schedule a personal visit, contact us here to chat with one of our senior counselors.