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Choosing an Assisted Living Facility

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Choosing the right facility for you or your elderly parents can be an overwhelming experience because of all the options. It should be a carefully thought out process. Visit the facilities several times at varying times of the day, talk to the staff and residents paying special attention to the attitude and friendliness of both. Research the state and federal regulations to be sure the facility is in compliance. Be sure to involve your loved ones in the decision as this will be their new home.

The following are things that should be considered when choosing a facility:

• Does the facility provide transportation to doctors’ offices, shopping, and other activities?
• What size and type of units are available?
• Do residents have their own lockable doors?
• Is there a 24-hour emergency response system set-up from the unit?
• Can residents bring their own cars?
• Can residents bring their own furnishings? What is provided?
• What are the restrictions on having guests and are there any guest accommodations?
• Are bathrooms private and designed for wheelchair access?
• Is there telephone and cable available and how are these services billed?
• Is there a kitchen area with a refrigerator, sink, and stove?
• Are there organized activities?
• Do residents participate in activities outside of the facility?
• Are residents allowed pets?
• Does the facility provide three nutritional meals a day?
• Are snacks available to residents?
• May residents eat their meals in their units?
• What are the policies for storing and administering medications?
• Is self-administration of medications allowed?
• Does a physician or nurse visit residents regularly?
• Does the residence provide housekeeping services?
• Is the staff available to offer 24-hour assistance with daily living activities, such as dressing, grooming, eating, and laundry?
• Do you receive a warm and friendly greeting from the staff members?
• Do residents socialize with each other and appear to be happy and comfortable in the facility?
• Is the facility clean, free of odors, and comfortable?
• Is there a security to guard against wandering residents?

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