10 Questions to Ask About Assisted Living
October 25, 2024
Many surveys reveal that most people would like to live in their own homes as long as possible. But the reality is that some people will require assistance at some point in their lives for a variety of reasons. Family caregiving arrangements can fall apart. Circumstances change—sometimes quickly. Experiencing a stroke or heart attack can drastically reduce a person’s ability to care for themselves or others. So, whether it’s a long-planned move to an assisted or independent living community, or a hasty scramble to find care after an emergency, someday you may be looking for a high-quality care community for yourself or a loved one.
This can be a daunting task. There are so many different options. Senior living, assisted living, independent living, and memory care communities all offer different levels of care, assistance, and amenities. It’s important to see these communities in person and get your questions answered. When touring a senior living community, asking the right questions can help you evaluate if it’s the right fit for yourself or a loved one. Here are 10 questions to consider:
What levels of care are available?
Ask about the different care options offered, such as independent living, assisted living, memory care, and whether residents can move between levels of care as their needs change.
What does each level of care (e.g., assisted living, memory care) cost, and what does the cost include?
Understand the monthly cost and what is included in that price, such as meals, housekeeping, transportation, cable TV or Wi-Fi, and activities. Also, inquire about additional fees for other services. Find out if the community has arrangements with dentists, physical therapists, or other health care professionals who serve residents on-site.
“Everybody asks about the costs, about the practical parts of their decision-making process as they’re touring the other communities in town,” explains Stacey Serad, Community Relations Director at Stafford Care of Port Orchard. “There may be a newer building in town, but we have the best residents in a very close-knit community.”
What types of apartments or living spaces are available?
Ask to see different types of living spaces and ask about their sizes, layouts, and accessibility features.
Can I meet the staff and see them interacting with residents?
Observe the staff to gauge their friendliness and professionalism and see how they interact with the current residents. Inquire about staff credentials and how long they have been working in senior living. Serad is particularly proud of the longevity of her staff, having been present in the Port Orchard community for more than 25 years.
“We have nurses and hairdressers who have been with us for more than 12 years,” Serad said. “We’ve worked our tails off to build a hyper-local community, because when it comes down to it there’s always a new place opening.”
What security and safety features are in place?
Ask about security measures, emergency plans, and the availability of staff. Ensure there are sufficient safety features for bathrooms, common areas, and throughout the community.
What types of activities and amenities are offered?
Check the community calendar for events and activities, and ask about amenities like fitness centers, outdoor spaces, libraries, and entertainment options.
What are the meal plans and dining options?
Inquire about meal plans, types of food served, dining hours, and seating arrangements. Consider asking if you can sample a meal during your visit. Are residents allowed to cook in their apartments?
“One of the big selling points when people move into assisted living is the food,” said Serad. “We have two fine dining chefs who run our dining program. Of course everyone wants to stay home, but who wants to cook and clean every day?”
How does the staff handle medical emergencies and health care needs?
Understand the protocol for medical emergencies, the proximity to hospitals, and how the outside community coordinates with health care providers.
Can residents personalize their living space?
Ask if residents can bring their own furnishings, decorate their rooms, and what restrictions, if any, are in place. Does the community allow pets?
What are the policies regarding visitors and overnight stays?
Learn about the visitor policies, including hours, overnight stays, and any accommodations for visitors or their pets.
“I would say that the most important thing that makes a good fit is the culture, not every building is for every person,” Serad explains. “I want folks to tour the building and meet our welcoming residents and family members. Our staff is dedicated to learning the preferences of our residents. No one gets lost in the shuffle, whether you are an introvert or extrovert.”
These questions will help you get a comprehensive view of the community’s environment, care, and services, ensuring a good match for the resident’s needs and preferences.
Contact Stafford Suites in Port Orchard to arrange a tour of our joyful assisted living community.