Selecting the right senior assisted living facility is a big decision, and considering the right points can ensure safety, comfort, and quality of life for your loved one. Here’s a comprehensive checklist to guide your decision:
🧓 1. Level of Care Provided
Help with Activities of Daily Living (ADLs): bathing, dressing, toileting, mobility, eating.
Medication management and monitoring.
Memory care for Alzheimer’s or dementia (if needed).
24-hour supervision and emergency response.
🏥 2. Licensing, Accreditation & Reputation
Is the facility licensed by your state’s health department?
Are there any violations or complaints in their inspection reports?
What do resident families and online reviews say?
Is it accredited by a recognized body like CARF or Joint Commission?
👩⚕️ 3. Staff Qualifications and Ratios
Are staff trained in senior care and emergency response?
What is the staff-to-resident ratio, especially on nights/weekends?
How often is staff turnover?
💵 4. Cost and Payment Options
What’s the monthly base rate, and what services are included?
Are there additional fees for extra care (medication, incontinence, etc.)?
Do they accept Medicaid, long-term care insurance, or offer financial assistance?
What is their policy on rate increases?
🛏️ 5. Living Conditions and Environment
Is the facility clean, well-maintained, and inviting?
Are rooms private or shared? Do they feel like home?
What are the safety features (grab bars, emergency call systems, etc.)?
Can residents personalize their rooms?
🍽️ 6. Meals and Nutrition
Are meals nutritious and tailored to dietary needs (e.g., low sodium, diabetic)?
Is there a licensed dietitian on staff?
Can you preview a sample menu or join a meal?
📆 7. Activities and Social Life
Are there daily activities, outings, or events for mental and social stimulation?
Is there access to exercise, music, or religious services?
Can residents go outside or have private time?
🚐 8. Transportation and Accessibility
Is transportation provided for doctor’s visits, shopping, or outings?
Are the facilities wheelchair-friendly and fully accessible?
👪 9. Family Involvement and Communication
Are visiting hours flexible?
How does the facility communicate health changes or incidents to families?
Are there care conferences with families?
📄 10. Contracts and Policies
Review the residency agreement carefully.
What are the terms for termination, refund, or moving out?
Are there policies for handling hospitalizations or behavior issues?