FAQ

Assisted Living

When you or someone you love is considering an assisted living facility, the following questions should be asked before making a decision. Print a copy of this checklist as a guide to compare Assisted Living Facilities.

Frequently asked questions regarding:

  1. Touring a Facility
  2. Individual Living Units
  3. Medication/Health Care
  4. Food Service
  5. Costs
  6. Social and Recreational Activities

Touring a Facility

  • What is the outward appearance of the residence?
  • Is the decor attractive and homelike?
  • Do you receive a warm greeting from staff?
  • Does staff call individuals by name and interact warmly with them?
  • Do individuals socialize with each other and appear comfortable?
  • Are you able to talk with individuals about how they like the residence and staff?
  • Does staff appear happy and knowledgeable about their jobs?
  • Is the residence well designed for seniors?
  • Is the floor plan easy to follow?
  • Do the doorways, hallways and rooms accommodate wheelchairs and walkers?
  • Are elevators accessible?
  • Are handrails available to aid in walking?
  • Are there places to sit or rest in long hallways?
  • Are the floors of a non-skid material and carpets firm to ease walking?
  • Is there natural lighting?
  • Is there adequate lighting, heating and cooling?
  • Does the residence meet local and state licensing requirements?
  • Are there outside patios and walk-ways?

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Individual Living Units

  • Are different sizes and types of units available?
  • Are units single or double occupancy?
  • Are bathrooms private and handicapped accessible?
  • Are bath and shower areas private and accessible?
  • Is there a 24-hour emergency response system in the unit?
  • Do units have telephones and cable?
  • May individuals bring their own furnishings?
  • May individuals smoke in their unit or designated area?
  • What appliances are allowed in units?

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Services

Does staff provide 24-hour assistance with activities of daily living, such as:

  • Dressing
  • Eating
  • Mobility
  • Hygiene and grooming
  • Bathing and toileting
  • Shopping
  • Laundry and housekeeping
  • Transportation to appointments

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Medication/Health Care

  • What is the medication storage policy?
  • Is self-administration of medication allowed?
  • Who assists with medications? Training? Supervision? Record keeping?
  • Does a physician visit the residence regularly?
  • What is the procedure for a medical emergency?
  • How can extra services be coordinated?
  • Is staff available to assist individuals who experience confusion and dis-orientation?
  • How much physical assistance is offered?
  • Is there a written plan of care?
  • How often are assessments performed to determine service needs?
  • When would an individual no longer be able to remain in the residence?

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Food Service

  • Does the residence provide three nutritionally balanced meals a day, seven days a week?
  • Are snacks available?
  • May an individual request special food?
  • Are therapeutic diets offered?
  • Are common dining areas available?
  • May individuals eat meals in their units?
  • Are there set times for meals, or are they provided at times when an individual would like to eat?
  • May an individual refuse to participate in dining that is provided by the residence?
  • May guests join an individual during meal time?
  • Are special meals (i.e., ethnic) ever offered?
  • Do individuals sit in assigned seats in the dining area?
  • May individuals take food back to their units?

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Costs

  • Are there different costs for varying levels of services?
  • What are the billing, payment and credit policies?
  • Is there an entrance/application fee?
  • May an individual handle his or her own finances?
  • What is the policy on insurance of personal property?

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Social and Recreational Activities

  • Are there organized programs?
  • Is the activities calendar posted and available to everyone?
  • Are there activity areas (i.e., lounges, game room, exercise room, library, etc.?)
  • Are the programs offered tailored to the interests and needs of the individuals living here?
  • Are community outings offered?
  • Does the residence provide transportation for recreational activities?
  • Are individuals encouraged to participate in activities outside of the residence?
  • Do volunteers come to the residence, and/or are volunteer opportunities made available for the individuals?
  • Does the residence have any organized committees?
  • Is there an emphasis on wellness?
  • Are individuals allowed to bring pets?
  • Does the residence have its own pet?
  • Are programs designed to promote family involvement?
  • Is there a full-time activities coordinator?
  • If individuals do not prefer group activities, are provisions made for an individual companionship?

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