Choosing an Elder Care Assisted Living Facility
Ask Questions & Visit in Person Before Selecting Senior Housing
Aug 30, 2009
Elder care living facilities can range from private care in a licensed caregiver's home to fully staffed nursing homes. A family member can help an aging loved one choose from a variety of senior communities, retirement communities, apartments for the elderly, and many levels of assisted living care.
Adult children who have never faced elder care decisions are often faced with the overwhelming task of trying to figure out the best living arrangements for an elderly parent or other aging relative. Allowing the senior to help with the decision eases the transition from independent living to assisted living.
Decide What Type of Home Placement the Elderly Person Needs
Discuss home placement options with the elderly person, using a positive attitude. Remember the parent or relative should have input and some control over what he or she wants in living arrangements. Working together takes away some of the emotional sting – and perhaps reduces some of the resistance – when family members must place an elderly loved one in assisted care.
Make a list of medical issues, hygiene assistance, and daily living tasks that require complete help or even minimal assistance. This provides some idea as to what level of assisted living the elderly person needs. Seek the advice of the person's doctor or other medical practitioner if there is any uncertainty about what kind of living arrangements would best suit the elderly parent's needs.
Questions to Ask When Choosing an Assisted Living Facility
Retirement communities, retirement homes, and assisted living facilities, all have different levels of care and amenities. Some residential communities offer little in the way of medical intervention, emphasizing social activities and providing recreational options. Other residences are modest but may still provide high quality client care, a nursing staff, and close supervision.
Tour the facility to get first-hand information. Medical care is a top priority and so is lifestyle; however, there are other questions a caregiver – and the elderly loved one – should ask before deciding on an assisted living facility. The sample questions shown here are directed to facilities offering a moderate level of client care.
- Observe the other residents. Do they seem relaxed? Is their general appearance acceptable/appropriate?
- Is there any kind of stimulation other than sitting and watching TV? Are there planned activities and recreation?
- How do staff members respond to the residents? Do staff members seem bored? Do they look clean? Do the staff persons behave and act professionally? Are they friendly, compassionate, and helpful?
- Is the building well-maintained inside and out? Does it look cheerful or drab? How does it smell?
- If the facility is an apartment, check safety features such as grab rails in the bathroom. Check floors for worn spots, raised tiles, and slip-resistant material. Check for sharp counter top edges. What kinds of door and window locks are used? Is the room thermostat easy to read and adjust? Is housekeeping provided; and if so, to what extent?
- Does the facility have a nurse on call? What is the protocol for medical emergencies?
- What kind of security does the building or apartment have? Can anyone leave and enter (including strangers) as they please? What rules do clients have as far as having visitors, leaving the premises, and entertaining guests?
- Is the dining area clean? Are residents allowed to choose meals? Can residents take their time eating and is there help available if one cannot manage alone?
- Are there outings planned, such as trips to the mall? Who provides transportation?
There are many options available for long term care for the elderly. Senior living means slowing down for many elders, while others prefer to maintain an active lifestyle. Choosing assisted living for an elderly parent requires teamwork to make the transition less stressful and less emotional.
By asking the right questions, the adult child or family caregiver can help an aging loved one find the best solution for assisted living. An appropriate facility does not have to be a luxury resort, but should meet specific requirements – safety, medical, social, recreational, and more – to promote the highest quality of living and ensure peace of mind for the family and elderly loved one.
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
