What are the most important questions to ask assisted living facilities in 2022? And, how will the move affect your loved one and your family over the next year or two?
Does your aging loved one require assistance with daily living? Perhaps you’re looking to transition them from a hospital to an assisted living facility. One of the most important things that you have to do is start researching. You want to find a facility that can provide all of the services that your loved one needs while providing the best care possible.
What is Assisted Living Care?
Assisted living care is a general term used to describe a wide range of senior care services. As the name suggests, it is “assisted” in that the providers must help seniors in various ways. Generally, the level of care increases with each type of assisted living.
What are the Major Types of Assisted Living Care?
Assisted living facilities offer a range of services, from help with the activities of daily living, such as bathing and dressing, to help with medical care and medication management.
You can classify assisted living facilities into these categories:
Independent Living – This is the most basic form of assisted living. It’s for seniors who can handle all their own needs but need some assistance. The staff members will help with chores and errands that may be otherwise challenging due to physical or mental impairments.
Assisted Living – This is a step up from independent living. Seniors here will get help with daily life activities — bathing, dressing, and so forth — as well as medication management and socialization opportunities.
Skilled Nursing Services – Some seniors may need skilled nursing services in addition to the other services offered by an assisted-living facility. Skilled care includes administering medications; providing wound care; protecting those at risk for falls, and treating those who have become confused or disoriented because of cognitive impairment.
Continuous Care Retirement Communities – These types of senior housing provide everything from independent and assisted living to skilled nursing care and memory support. They often feature health and wellness centers, recreational facilities, and other amenities.
Most people don’t like to think about it, but everyone eventually needs assistance in their later years. Choosing the right type and level of care is vital for maintaining independence and preventing unnecessary hardship.
25 Important Questions to Ask Assisted Living Facilities in 2022
Here are 25 essential questions to ask assisted living facilities in 2022. The information provided below could potentially help you to make the best decision for your family member.
1. Do They Have 24-Hour Care?
There are plenty of people who do just fine living on their own, but it’s essential to have someone around during the day for others. If your loved one requires help with daily tasks like bathing, getting dressed, and preparing meals, you need to be sure the facility offers 24-hour care.
2. What are Their COVID Protocols?
When talking to a senior living facility about a resident with a confirmed case of COVID-19 or any other infection, you want to ask questions that help affirm the facility’s steps to prevent other residents and staff from getting sick.
3. What Types of Meals are Served?
Assisted living facilities provide all of your loved one’s meal needs. Before making a final selection, learn more about the types of meals served. Typically, assisted living facilities serve three meals each day.
They use menus designed to offer residents nutritional balance without requiring them to cook or shop for groceries. Some facilities even provide small snacks in between meals.
Here are some additional menu questions you should ask:
- What types of options are available?
- Are there any restrictions based on medical conditions?
- How often are meals served?
- Is there anything you can do to ensure your loved one has access to their favorite foods?
- When do mealtimes occur?
- What is the process for getting an extra meal or snack if your loved one becomes hungry between meals?
- Where do residents eat meals?
4. What Kind of Care Does Their Staff Provide?
When you’re searching for assisted living facilities in 2022, there are some critical questions to ask. For example, how do their staff members treat the residents?
From bathing to administering medication, the daily needs of the elderly are taken care of by assisted living caregivers. Because residents are at different stages of their lives, their conditions are also variable.
Relatively independent residents may have some mobility issues, while those with severe Alzheimer’s disease or dementia might need complete assistance with all daily tasks.
When you visit, ask about the kind of help they offer so you can see how it aligns with your loved one’s needs.
5. What is Their Staff-to-Resident Ratio?
Finding a senior living facility that meets your loved one’s needs is more important than ever, as the U.S. population of seniors is multiplying. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, people over 65 will outpace children under 18 by 2035, making an increasing number of seniors potential residents at assisted living facilities.
A big part of that decision is knowing if the facility has enough staff to provide adequate care for your loved one on any given day. The best way to know this is to ask this question directly during the first visit: What is their ratio of staff to residents?
The federal government hasn’t set a standard on how many caregivers should be available per resident. Still, some states have enacted legislation to help protect residents from dangerous situations like neglect and abuse.
6. How Do They Handle Emergencies?
The most pressing question on the minds of families is, “What happens if my loved one has an emergency?” Emergencies are an essential thing to consider when it comes to assisted living facilities. The best ones have a plan in place for multiple situations.
- What happens in case of a fire?
- Are caregivers trained in CPR and other first aid?
Is there a backup generator in case of a power outage? - What is the average time it would take paramedics or the fire dept. to respond to a 911 call?
7. Do They Offer Transportation Services?
Some assisted living care homes will offer transportation services. This may include a shuttle to and from doctor’s appointments or a trip to a local grocery store once a week. They may even offer to take residents shopping for non-essentials or have monthly outings.
If this is important to you, it’s something you should ask during your initial tour. Also, ask how much it will cost and if there are extra charges for these trips.
8. How Many Residents are There?
The number of residents is one crucial factor when determining whether a given facility is the right fit. This is a fundamental question, as it gives you an idea of how much attention the caregivers will provide each resident.
Facilities geared toward seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia should have fewer residents.
These facilities usually feel like home and allow for more privacy and independence for seniors who need it. Care at smaller facilities might come with higher price tags because caregivers generally dedicate more time to each resident.
9. How Do They Keep Residents Engaged and Active?
Some residents don’t want to sit around watching television all day long. They want the opportunity to live their lives to the fullest with as much independence as possible.
A recent study conducted by The National Council on Aging (NCOA) indicates that residents in assisted living facilities are less likely to participate in physical activity if they do not have a strong connection with staff members. This is why it is so crucial for assisted living facilities to offer social events and community outings so their residents can connect with others while staying active.
10. Do They Have Activities Tailored to Your Loved One’s Interest?
There are many ways to make life at assisted living facilities more enjoyable for residents. Activities tailored to personal interests can be one of the most rewarding aspects of a senior’s life and a crucial part of their overall well-being.
Searching for a possible facility can be a stressful experience, especially when you’re doing it on behalf of a family member who has limited communication abilities.
When evaluating an assisted living facility, consider whether or not it has activities geared towards your loved one’s interests. You want to find a place that will keep them busy and engaged. They should have plenty to do, such as exercise classes, games, outings, and other social activities.
11. How Close is the Nearest Hospital?
Families prefer that their loved ones live in senior communities close to a hospital in case of an emergency. If a loved one in assisted living has a severe medical condition, you want the facility close to a hospital that offers 24-hour emergency care.
There are some assisted living communities in rural areas that don’t have immediate access to a hospital. It’s important to ask about ambulance services. Many assisted living communities are not equipped to handle emergencies on their own, so knowing whether or not ambulances are available is vital if you need medical help for your loved one.
12. How Do They Dispense Medications?
If families place other family members in an assisted living facility, they want to be sure that they’re getting the care they need.
When it comes to medication management, families and caregivers need to know precisely facilities dispense medications. They also need to understand how the facility monitors patients’ medications and addresses any concerns regarding medication safety. You can learn more about medication management by speaking with your loved one’s doctor or calling the facility.
13. What is Their Policy on Wandering?
Assisted living facilities can provide the support that residents need to stay safe. However, some don’t have policies in place to prevent wandering. When their staff is not trained or equipped to stop it, residents can be left vulnerable to dangers outside the facility.
Assisted living facilities with memory care residents should have a clear policy on wandering. This includes secure memory care facilities and what steps they will take if a wanderer left the location.
14. What Will Your Family Pay?
What will my family pay each month? This is an important question that you need to ask as early as possible. They should ask you about income, assets, and other financial data.
If you’re familiar with how much it costs to live at home, you will have a good idea of how much it might cost to live in an assisted living facility.
A National Center for Assisted Living report showed that the average cost for assisted living in the United States was $4,300 per month in 2020. Those median costs jumped to over $6,000 in states like Delaware, Connecticut, and New Hampshire, according to Genworth.
15. Do You Allow Pets?
When looking for an assisted living facility, it is essential to know if they allow pets. Pets can provide comfort and companionship for seniors. They can also be a source of friendship for other residents who may have lost their pets or are living alone.
Residents who have a pet bonded with them may not be able to part with their furry friend. Some assisted living facilities will not allow pets due to the potential care issues of having an animal in the building.
For some residents, this could be a deal-breaker. Although you may find a facility that allows pets, it’s usually on a case-by-case basis. Discuss their regulations to find out if your loved one’s pet is allowed.
16. What Level of Support is There for Family Members?
There are so many questions to ask and so much information to gather about assisted living. It can all get overwhelming, especially when you’re trying to handle this while simultaneously tending to the needs of an aging loved one.
What level of support is there for family members who are concerned about their loved ones? Is the facility willing to work with the family member to do what’s best for their loved one?
These are issues that you should tackle during a visit before signing any contracts.
17. Do They Offer Hospice Care?
The need for hospice care stems from the fact that there is no cure for terminal illnesses, and while there may be treatments available, the goal is to make the patient more comfortable. This means that while assisted living facilities can provide food, shelter, and some personal care needs, they may not have the capacity to handle medical issues.
If your loved one requires hospice care, you should know if the assisted living facility that you are touring offers it. If hospice care is not available on-site, it is also essential to understand how close their relationship is with nearby hospice services. You may want to visit the local hospice center before moving in so you can get a feel of what is available.
18. What if Your Loved One Has Physical Disabilities?
Physical disabilities can complicate the search for assisted living apartments and special care homes. People with physical disabilities often need more assistance than those who are healthy. Here are some questions to ask before moving into an assisted living home.
- Are there wheelchair ramps?
- Can wheelchairs fit easily through the doors and hallways?
- Are there shower seats available for those who can’t stand?
- Are there caregivers trained in handling residents with Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, dementia, or other cognitive issues?
19. Does the Assisted Living Facility offer Memory Care?
Many variables will come into play when choosing an assisted living facility for yourself or someone you love. One of the most important aspects to consider is whether or not the facility offers memory care. This is not something you want to overlook, as the needs of those with dementia or Alzheimer’s disease can be quite different than those who do not have cognitive issues.
If your loved one has Alzheimer’s or dementia, they will need a facility that offers specialized care. They train their staff at this type of facility to handle residents with these conditions, and they will be able to provide more care than they would at a typical senior living community. If you are looking for memory care for yourself or someone else, it is vital to find a facility that offers specialized treatment.
20. Who Will Be Taking Care of My Loved One?
Asking who will be taking care of your loved one is very important because you want to ensure that your loved one will be in good hands at all times. It is also essential to know whether there are enough staff members available so that your loved one gets the attention that they deserve. If the facility is understaffed, it might not provide adequate attention and care for your loved one.
When a resident stays in an assisted living facility, it means that they need round-the-clock attention. So, it is important to find out who will be taking care of your loved one.
During your visit, check out the facility and see how the staff communicate with the residents. Are they kind and caring? What methods do they use to communicate with them?
Talk with some families and ask them how they feel about the staff and whether or not they feel safe and comfortable with their loved ones in this new environment.
21. Do They Provide Transportation to Doctor’s Appointments?
Another question to ask when considering assisted living facilities is whether they provide transportation to doctor’s appointments. If you plan on moving your loved one into an assisted living facility, they will likely need to schedule regular doctor’s appointments.
If transportation to doctor’s appointments is not available, your family will have to provide transportation, call a taxi, or search for other transportation alternatives. This can be pretty expensive.
When looking into assisted living facilities, make sure that they provide transportation for residents when they need to go to their doctors’ appointments. This will save you a lot of money and time.
22. How Do They Handle Conflicts with Residents?
Assisted living facilities must be able to address conflicts that occur among residents. Many of these conflicts involve food, cognitive problems such as hoarding, and disputes over personal space.
Assisted living facilities should be able to address any of these conflicts appropriately. When a conflict occurs, the staff should try to resolve it diplomatically, if possible. If that doesn’t work, they have the right to remove the resident from the facility.
ALFs should have a policy that addresses this issue clearly so that everyone knows what actions are permissible during a conflict.
Assisted living facilities are also responsible for maintaining a safe environment for residents. If they fail at this task, they can become liable for any injuries or deaths on their premises.
23. What Types of Amenities Do They Have?
When you or a loved one choose an assisted living facility, you have to decide between the multitude of options. The more amenities that are available, the more it’s going to cost you. What are your priorities? Before you make any decisions, make sure you know what kinds of amenities are available at each facility.
Assisted living communities offer dining options that are both delicious and nutritious. Many facilities provide three meals a day in their dining rooms or restaurants within the complex.
Residents typically pay monthly fees, and the price ranges depending on the amenities, location, and level of care. Some facilities also have annual fees for services such as transportation, dietary and personal care. Some facilities may offer additional benefits such as laundry service and housekeeping.
Residents who stay at assisted living communities should enjoy various activities such as games, arts and crafts, exercise programs, and planned outings.
You and your family should base the type of assisted living facility on your unique needs and lifestyle. You may want to consider a community that offers different levels of specialized care, such as Alzheimer’s care and memory care.
24. Have They Had Any Major Incidents with Safety of Improper Care?
Any facility that cares for the elderly or disabled has to pass a set of stringent state regulations. The care they provide must be safe and quality-assured, and if it isn’t, businesses can lose their licenses. However, the quality and level of care and services offered by an assisted living home or facility can vary widely.
A strong reputation among residents and their families is vital for a successful business. Check with your state’s department of aging for information about accreditation standards. Also, look at reviews from current residents’ families before making your ultimate decision.
25. What is The Advantage Over Home Care?
Assisted living facilities can give residents a greater sense of safety and security than they might get in a private residence. An on-site nurse or healthcare professional can also provide more consistent medical care than your aging loved one might be able to get on their own.
When it comes to long-term care, assisted living facilities offer residents a variety of services and amenities that may not be available in a private residence. For example, they usually provide meals for their residents, housekeeping and laundry services, and activities like arts and crafts classes or exercise programs.
Assisted living facilities can be an excellent choice for elderly individuals who need help with simple tasks like bathing and cooking but don’t require round-the-clock medical care. Private residences don’t offer the same supervision and support level as assisted living facilities, but they can be a better option for seniors who want to live independently.
25 Important Questions to Ask Assisted Living Facilities in 2022 – Conclusion
If you are considering senior living arrangements, there are several questions to ask. You want to feel comfortable with the care your loved one will receive in prospective assisted living facilities.
Asking the right questions enables you to understand both the current level of care and help desired and the care and help upcoming changes may bring. Once you decide about placement, getting feedback on how well it is working out is important.
If you have more questions to ask assisted living facilities, Applewood Our House is here to help. We have five assisted living and memory care homes in Golden, Lakewood, and Arvada, Colorado. Contact us today for more information.
There are no guarantees in life, but that extra layer of assisted living care could make all the difference in the world to your family in 2022.
