How to Choose an Assisted Living Community for a Loved One

Choosing an assisted living community for a loved one is an important decision that can profoundly impact their quality of life.

Finding a high-quality assisted living community that meets the needs of your loved one and family takes knowledge, time, and patience.

The process is time-consuming and incredibly emotional!

The assisted living industry is massive and complex; if you’re unfamiliar with senior living, the process can be overwhelming.

According to the National Council of Assisted Living, there are approximately 30,600 assisted living communities with nearly 1.2 million beds in the United States.

So, where do you begin?

In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know to choose the best assisted living community for your loved one and family.

What is Assisted Living?

Assisted living communities are designed for older adults who want to maintain independence but need help with activities of daily living (ADLs), such as bathing, dressing, grooming, and eating.

Although assisted living communities help with personal care, they don’t care for seniors who need extensive medical care or treatment. However, many have on-site memory care professionals.

Residents enjoy a community-like setting in a socially active environment where they can participate in various planned activities, events, and classes.

Assisted living communities vary greatly in size, culture, amenities, costs, and services.

Most assisted living communities offer studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom apartment-style units in a socially active and vibrant atmosphere.

Evaluate Your Loved One’s Needs

Most assisted living communities evaluate potential residents to understand their needs before they move in, making it essential to clearly understand your loved one’s needs before visiting communities.

Speak with your loved one and their physician to create a customized care plan that includes:

• Personal care: Does your loved one need assistance with bathing, dressing, toileting, or mobility?
• Medical needs: Does your loved one have chronic medical conditions, cognitive issues, or medication management needs?
• Social and Recreational Requirements: Is your loved one looking for an active community with opportunities to meet and connect with peers?

Involve Your Loved One in The Decision Making

If possible, involve your loved one in the decision-making process.

Ask them the following questions:

• What do you need the most help with?
• What types of on-site amenities would you like to have?
• What kinds of hobbies, activities, programs, and events interest you?
• What are your accommodation preferences?

Including your loved one in decision-making is essential to finding a community where they’ll be happy and well cared for.

Research and Visit Several Communities

Even within the same city, assisted living communities vary greatly in size, quality, cost, and services.

Ask for recommendations from family, friends, and health care providers.

Make a list of possible communities and set up in-person visits. Invite friends and family to get a second opinion.

During your visits, ask a lot of questions, sample a meal, and evaluate the cleanliness of the community, the friendliness of the staff and residents, safety precautions, meal plans, available services, and amenities.

Understand The Costs

The cost of assisted living will vary depending on location, services, amenities, care, and the quality of the community.

Before choosing a community, ensure you understand the following:  

• Deposits and entrance fees
• Monthly fee
• Additional fees for services and amenities
• Cost structure
• Payment & billing options
• Contract terms

Understanding the cost is crucial to making sure you can comfortably afford the community you choose.

Wrap-up

Choosing an assisted living community for a loved one is an important and emotional decision.

There are many moving parts, and you want to ensure you have the knowledge and pertinent information needed to make the best decision.

Evaluating your loved one's needs, involving them in the process, visiting multiple communities, and understanding costs are essential to selecting a community that offers the care, comfort, and safety they deserve.