Critical components to consider for assisted living
When moving a loved one to an assisted living or memory care community, it is most important to focus on the key issues that will meet their individual needs. It is a major decision and one you will feel confident about once you have done your homework and learned about the choices available to you. Here is a list of important components to consider:
Personal Care Assistant & Well-Trained Staff
How long has the staff been employed in the community? What is the turnover rate for employees? Is the staff friendly and involved with residents? Residents have challenges when staff frequently leaves and a new employee must learn the nuances of each resident’s personality. This is probably one of the most important elements to research when considering your options. High turnover is a symptom of operational issues. Finding a community with tenured employees isn’t always easy, but very important.
Quality Dining Experience Dining with fellow neighbors is one of the highlights of each day. The quality of the meals is extremely important. Make sure you experience a meal in the dining room. Ask if special diets are available. Are low sodium and low sugar options always offered to residents? Are family members welcome to share a meal with loved ones? Is the food fresh, appetizing and courteously served with a smile? Socialization
How does the community help new residents get involved? Does the new resident have an orientation with staff to acquaint them with those who might be supporting them? Is there an identified resident to help show the new resident around?
Daily Activities
Ask to see the current month’s activity calendar as well as past ones. Visit a community’s Facebook page to see what occurs for social, cultural, recreational and spiritual programs. Residents who are no longer fully independent enjoy and appreciate having a varied and stimulating choice of enrichment programs from which to choose. Medication Management How are medications dispensed? Does the staff member have appropriate training? Are the medications locked? How are they delivered for added convenience? Is there an additional charge to manage a resident’s medications? Housekeeping
Learn about the services included or charges for housekeeping. Are residents’
‘It is a major decision and one you will feel confident about once you have done your homework.’
personal laundry done for them? Are the flat linens changed weekly, or more often as needed? Does the community provide linens or can residents bring their own favorites? Is the bed made each day? Are the common areas inviting and well kept? Does the community look good, feel good and smell good? Is the community being maintained to the highest standard in order to meet the residents’ lifestyle and needs? Transportation
What types of transportation is included in the monthly fee? Is there an additional charge to be taken to a medical appointment, and if so, how much? What types of vehicles are used? Are they serviced regularly?