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).