Choosing Assistant Living/Personal Care

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Use this checklist to review options

PHYSICAL ENVIRONMENT

Is the community clean and well maintained?

Are there multiple floor plans available?

Can residents decorate their apartments, studios or suites according to their personal tastes?

Is the community pet friendly?

Does the community have safety features, such as handrails and grab bars?

Do individual residences include safety features, such as emergency alert and fire suppression systems?

RESIDENT AND STAFF INTERACTION

What is the staff-to-resident ratio?

Is the community well staffed overnight?

How does the community handle residents who need additional care and support?

Do residents have access to in-home care should it be needed?

Do staff members undergo screenings and background checks prior to employment?

Is the staff screened and evaluated for their ability to work with older adults in the assisted living setting?

Does the community have its most recent survey results posted or displayed for families to review?

Are staff trained and retrained at regular intervals?

Are housekeeping and laundry provided?

Are transportation services available?

DINING SERVICES

Does the dining room look and smell inviting?

Are the dining room tables, chairs and linens in good condition?

Are residents allowed to invite guests for meals?

Can residents select their own meal times, or are there designated meal times?

Are three daily meals, snacks and beverages included in the monthly rate?

Does the resident committee work with the dining staff to develop menus?

Can the community accommodate special dietary needs?

Is there a dietician or nutritionist involved in meal planning?

FEES AND COSTS

What services are included in the monthly fee?

What services are available for an additional fee?

☐ What are the fees?

How often do resident rate increases occur?

How much notice do residents receive prior to a rate increase?

ACTIVITIES AND PROGRAMS

Are activities scheduled throughout the day and evening?

Are fitness classes offered?

Are there dedicated spaces for resident clubs and informal gatherings?

Does the community offer regular outings to local restaurants, theaters, museums and other destinations?

Are there outdoor spaces available for walking, gardening and recreation?

Are volunteer programs available?

Do the residents appear engaged?

LOCATION

Is the community conveniently located for friends and family to visit?

D Is the community in a safe neighborhood?

Are there shopping, dining and entertainment options near the community?

Is the community near preferred medical providers?

Source: www.whereyoulivematters.org, a senior living resource powered by the American Seniors Housing Association (ASHA).



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