Assisted living is a rewarding lifestyle. It helps an older loved one maintain their independence, even when daily activities are a challenge. The move to assisted living can be a great choice, but it’s essential to make an informed choice. So what should you ask before moving in?
Before moving in, you’ll want to ask plenty of questions. Make sure you fully understand the levels of care offered, the price, what activities are available, and more. The more information you have, the easier it is to find the right community for your loved one!
What Levels of Care Does the Community Provide?
First, think about what your loved one needs. No two communities are alike, and you’ll want to align their needs with what the community provides. Remember—assisted living should help them stay independent.
During your initial visit, ask specific questions like:
- What types of personal care services are included?
- Are staff members available 24/7?
- What medical services are provided on-site?
- How does the community handle medication management?
You’ll also want to learn about the staff-to-resident ratio and the training required for their team. These details make a big difference, and they let you know how well your loved one will be cared for.
What Are The Costs & What’s Included?
Cost plays an important role in finding the right community. Your loved one deserves a home that meets all their needs, so you’ll need to budget accordingly. Every community is a little different, so financial transparency is key.
Some communities will include dietary options, housekeeping, and additional services in their base price. Other communities may add additional fees for bonus programs or membership clubs. Make sure to ask about what’s included in the price—it helps you avoid unwanted surprises later on.
Cost is an important factor. The right community should be affordable and open about their pricing.
What Dining Options Are Available?
Nutrition is an essential part of a healthy lifestyle, as it directly impacts your loved one’s everyday quality of life. A well-designed dining option shouldn’t just serve meals, but cater to the needs of every resident there.
Try asking:
- Are meals customizable to dietary restrictions or preferences?
- What is the meal schedule, and are snacks provided throughout the day?
- Can residents provide input on the menu?
- Are guests allowed to join residents for meals?
- Is the dining area accessible and comfortable?
These details let you know how the community cares for every resident. It also shows how seriously the community takes their contribution to health and wellness.
What Activities & Social Opportunities Are Offered?
Senior living communities offer a range of services and amenities. These should all be designed to make residents’ lives active, engaging, and convenient. The activities available in a community will shape the overall culture of your loved one’s new community.
Assisted living typically offers:
- Fitness classes such as yoga, tai chi, or aerobics
- Arts and crafts sessions
- Group outings to local attractions.
- Game nights for social interaction.
- Educational lectures or workshops
Try asking about what’s available on-site, and make sure it meets your loved one’s unique interests. The little moments matter, and these activities should bring joy to your loved one every day.
Can I Tour the Living Spaces?
Before signing anything, you should have the opportunity to schedule a tour with potential communities. This lets you see firsthand how their new environment might feel. You’ll want to pay attention during this visit—keep an eye out for:
- Cleanliness and overall upkeep of the community.
- Accessibility features, such as handrails or elevators.
- The size and layout of the living spaces.
- Common areas for socializing and activities.
- Safety features, like emergency call systems or secure entrances.
It also helps to pay attention to the way staff on-site interact with residents. These interactions paint a picture of what everyday life is like in the community—and whether this community is right for your loved one.
What Safety & Security Measures Are in Place?
Your loved one’s safety should be top priority. Assisted living is about restoring independence to your loved one, so keep an eye out for safety and security measures.
Each community is going to have their own process for keeping residents safe. Try asking about their policies, and look for:
- Staff availability and training to handle emergencies
- Emergency call systems in resident rooms and communal areas
- Regular safety drills for residents and staff
- Maintenance and inspection of fire safety equipment
- Procedures for medication management and health monitoring
These precautions play an important role in your peace of mind. They let you know your loved one is well taken care of, and in a community that genuinely prioritizes their safety.
Find Your Loved One’s Future Community
Deciding to move to assisted living can do wonders for an older loved one’s well-being. It’s a chance for them to thrive in a community designed to support them every day. Assisted living is extremely rewarding—and knowing the right questions to ask is essential to making an informed decision.
That’s why our team at All American Assisted Living at Coram is so excited to help. In our community, your loved one will be supported every day in a way that makes a true difference. So contact us today to schedule a tour—your loved one’s future home could be right around the corner!
