When Shopping for Senior Living, Get the Info You Need

Choosing a senior living community is a big decision. Making the right choice can mean years of contentment for you or your senior loved one. When you visit a senior living community for a tour, arrive armed with your questions. A few you might want to ask:

Get details on staffing. How many staff members are on duty on weekdays? How about weekends? Is staff available 24/7? What background checks are performed on staff?

What’s included, and what’s not? Some communities are all-inclusive; others charge for housekeeping and laundry services, utilities (cable, internet, emergency call systems, etc.), incontinence supplies and other extras. Ask for a price list for any services that incur additional fees.

Ask about safety. What steps does the community take to ensure residents’ safety? Do residents have call buttons or pull cords for emergency assistance? Do bathrooms have safety features, like grab bars and slip-resistant surfaces? Can residents request nightly safety checks?

What activities are offered? Ask to see the community calendar with a list of activities. Inquire about outside options; some communities offer transportation to local senior centers or other outings.

What about medical care? Independent living communities typically do not have a nurse or physician on staff; assisted living and memory care may or may not. Ask: Does the community have a physician or a registered nurse on the premises, and if so, during what hours? How are medical emergencies handled when no medical personnel are on duty?

Don’t hesitate to bring up specific concerns. For example, if Mom tends to wander ask, “How will staff ensure she doesn’t wander outside and get lost?”

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