Choosing an assisted living facility for a relative –whether Mom, Dad, a grandparent, or a spouse– can be one of the hardest, most important decisions you make as a caregiver. It’s easy to feel confused and overwhelmed due to the sheer number of homes out there. There’s so much to account for: various amenities, costs, and types of care. Not to mention, you want the best care that is the best fit for your loved one.
So, how do you choose an assisted living facility?
How do you make sure your loved one is happy, healthy, and can afford their care – today and in the future? Consider a few key decision-making points: housing (including amenities), healthcare, and cost. Here are a few questions to ask when touring, or when researching potential assisted living homes.
Housing Options
- Take time to inspect the cleanliness of the housing unit, in every room or area of the unit.
- Make note of the heating, air conditioning, and ventilation units. Are they performing well?
- Are there different sizes or types of units available to tour?
- Are the rooms and bathrooms shared or private?
- Are there kitchens or kitchenettes? Are meals delivered to their rooms, or is it dining hall service? Is there an added cost for 3 square meals per day?
- Is the floor plan logical and safe for your loved one’s needs? Handicap accessible? Minimal stairs? Is the shower/tub accessible? Etc.
- How often is housekeeping provided, and what services do they provide? Is it included in the daily cost?
- Is there lawn maintenance, snow removal, etc. if necessary?
Healthcare
- Is there 24-hour care available?
- Is the nursing and care staff fully licensed, and what type of experience do they have?
- If necessary, is there designated space and a level of care suitable for loved ones with Alzheimer’s, or other memory impairments?
- How often do physicians visit? Can residents choose their own doctors?
- Where is the nearest hospital or healthcare facility off-campus?
- Are there emergency call buttons – for residents to wear and/or in their living facilities?
- Are prescriptions delivered? Can medications be administered?
Cost and Payment
- Is the facility Medicaid approved? Veterans Insurance? Private pay? Etc.
- Does the contract specify what happens if a resident can no longer pay?
- Under what circumstances would a resident move out?
- How does the facility bill for services?
- What is their visitor policy?
- What types of activities are offered? Transportation?
- What other amenities are included? For what, if any, added cost? Is paying for all necessary?
For more information about assisted living, and more about our assisted living facilities at Heritage Pointe, contact us today! One of our representatives would be more than happy to discuss assisted living costs, amenities, and housing options at Heritage Pointe of Huntington with you.
