Frequently Asked Questions
Whether you are considering care for yourself or for a loved one, gathering accurate and helpful information is the first step in making the right decision.
How do you know if assisted living is the right option?
Assisted living is likely a good option if:
• Your loved one's needs require more care than you can provide.
• Your loved one is no longer able to maintain the home, grocery shop on their own, or has concerns about driving safely.
• Your loved one isn't eating properly, drinking enough water, or getting exercise.
• Your loved one is lonely or fears being alone.
How does assisted living differ from a nursing home?
Assisted living communities offer a unique combination of independent living in conjunction with senior care. Unlike nursing homes and other medical facilities, senior living communities allow seniors to maintain a sense of independence and involvement in a social community while also providing assistance with the tasks of daily life. It's just like home, but with the added peace of mind that 24/7 care availability brings. Plus, residents get to enjoy a full calendar of social events and delicious restaurant-style meals.
When is the right time to make the move to assisted living?
If hiring in-home care is not an option, an assisted living community is the next best choice. It may be time to consider assisted living if your loved one cannot perform daily living tasks on their own (ie bathing, dressing, and cooking). If your loved one has severe mobility concerns, cannot navigate the home without assistance, is constantly confused or forgetful, and sometimes wanders... these are signs that their safety is at risk. Now is the right time to choose an assisted living community.
Why do I feel guilty moving my loved one into an assisted living community?
Guilt is a feeling that many caregivers experience when moving a loved one into a senior living community. It is important to remember that choosing assisted living is choosing to provide your loved one with the assistive care they need a safe, comfortable environment. Our assisted living community becomes an extension of your family. Caregivers can remain involved in the life of their loved one to whatever degree they feel most comfortable.
What are the top 5 areas to consider when it comes to finding the right senior living community for a loved one?
Services - Senior living includes independent living, assisted living, and memory care. When researching different communities, take note of what levels of care are provided. In some cases, a single community could offer two or three care options and make for an easier transition for your loved one as they age. Things like medication management, housekeeping, laundry, daily activities, and dining services are also important to consider.
Environment - The environment of a senior living community sets the tone for everything. Read reviews, ask fellow residents and family members about their experiences, and scroll social media accounts to get a feel for the atmosphere. It's always recommended to take a tour of the community, and pay careful attention to first impressions.
Staff - A great care team knows their residents on a personal level and feel like an extension of family. Ask about the staff-to-resident ratio, emergency procedures, and top concerns that are specific to your loved one's well-being.
Activities - A robust calendar of social activities makes for a vibrant senior living community. Ask to see a copy of the monthly activity schedule. There should be a variety of activity types (ie exercise, crafts, games, etc.) where every resident can participate in something they enjoy.
Payments - Knowing how you will pay for your loved one's senior care is important. Find out how payments are processed (online, via mail, ACH, etc.) and if any additional fees are required outside of the monthly rent.
What can my loved one bring with them?
A resident is welcome to bring anything they like with them, so long as it fits inside the apartment. Furniture, mementos, and home decor items are encouraged to help make the space feel comfortable. This is their new home, and we want it to feel cozy and welcoming.
Can my loved one's pet come with them to assisted living?
Pet policies very by community. Ask the Family Advisor if pets are welcome and guidelines or restrictions may apply.
How much does assisted living cost?
When it comes to the cost of trusted senior care, prices vary based on the resident's specific needs, apartment size, and whether or not Medicaid/Medicare can be used. Our Family Advisor works with individual families to craft a pricing and care package specific to the needs and services your loved one will receive. To receive an estimate, please give us a call. Make sure to ask about special saving promotions that may apply!
Can a senior be denied admission?
Our staff will evaluate the heath and care needs of your loved one to determine if he or she is a good candidate for joining our assisted living community. If your loved one requires more care than we can provide, the team will most likely refer your loved one to a skilled nursing facility or nursing home.
How are assisted living communities licensed?
According to the Assisted Living Federation of America (ALFA), regulations and license requirements vary from state to state. It is important to research your state's licensing requirements and compare those to the assisted living residences you are considering. Also, many states require the administrator of the facility to be licensed or certified. Any care provider should be willing to show credentials upon request.
Why should I ask about a community's philosophy of care?
Experts at the Assisted Living Federation of America (ALFA) suggest that a community's philosophy of care be an integral part of your decision-making process. Be sure that residents are afforded respect, privacy, religious freedom, the right to voice grievances, maintain personal finances, and control healthcare decisions. Make sure personal preferences align on things like pets, alcohol, smoking, and other quality-of-life-issues.
