10 TIPS
For Choosing The Right Assisted Living Facility for a Loved One. One of the most important decisions you may ever make in your life is what assisted living facility is right for your loved one. We’ve compiled a list of tips to help you create the best decision for your family.
By Kaitlyn Fusco
A
ssisted living facilities (ALFs) provide long-term housing and care for seniors who can no longer live independently. Those who may need assisted living are generally active individuals, but they may need support with activities of daily living (ADLs) such as using the toilet, dressing or bathing. Seniors in assisted living can expect personalized care, prepared meals, social activities to cater to a variety of interests, and a sense of community in a safe, residential setting. Choosing the right assisted living facility for your loved one may seem like a daunting task with so many options and lots of questions. If you don’t know where to start, check out these tips.
1. Identify You Loved One’s Needs.
Be realistic about what needs you or your loved one has, and what they might need in the future. Make a list of priority needs and concerns.
2. Talk Financials and Be Prepared.
For some families, the cost of assisted living facilities becomes a major factor in the decision-making process. Determine whether the community you’re touring uses allinclusive pricing, tiered pricing based on levels of care, a la carte pricing, or another model. Additionally, avoid sticker shock by asking about move-in fees and contract terms. Generally, a business office manager can answer these questions and address related concerns. Make sure to ask what documentation is needed for accurate pricing.
22
Central Florida Lifestyle | February 2022
3. What Location Makes Sense for Your Family?
Frequent visits from family members can help with the transition from independent living to assisted living. If this is important to you, consider the drive and commute the facility would be from family members who will be visiting often.
4. Tour Multiple Locations
Visiting multiple facilities in person is a great way to get a better feel for which facility is right for your loved one. You can see the facilities up close, meet staff members and visualize if you could see your loved one being comfortable with his or her surroundings.
5. Identify Amenities
While each community is different, assisted living facilities offers services and amenities to focus on important aspects of senior wellness, including physical health, intellectual stimulation, and social connection. According to A Place For Mom, these three foundational pillars help slow cognitive decline and keep seniors healthier and happier longer. Some amenities to think about are beauty salons and barbershops, chapel, library, outdoor space, garden or courtyard, pool/spa, fitness center, club/bar, and an event space.
6. What Activities Are Offered?
It is important to keep in mind the activities your loved ones enjoyed during independent living and see what is offered at the assisted living facility of your choice.
