Checklist to Evaluate an Assisted Living Facility
Choosing an assisted living facility is not a simple decision, as several factors need to be considered. Hence, it is advisable to have a checklist, so that you can be guided in your decision-making.
You should understand your needs, the living conditions, the costs, your preferred services as well as consider the future services that you may require. Here are some items that should be on your checklist when you are evaluating an assisted living residence.
First, you should note the atmosphere at the assisted living facility.
Is the interior dйcor homelike and attractive?
Do you receive a warm welcome from the staff?
How is the interaction between the staff and residents? Warm and friendly or formal and hostile?
Do the residents appear contented and comfortable in the residence?
Do the residents socialize and interact with each other?
You should also consider the physical features of the residence.
How convenient is the location for visits from family and friends?
Can the rooms, doorways, and hallways accommodate walkers and wheelchairs?
Are there elevators for those who use walkers or wheelchair bound?
Are there handrails to aid walking?
Are the cupboards and shelves built for easy reach?
How is the lighting, temperature control (warming/cooling), and the cleanliness of the residence?
The services available should also be taken into consideration.
Is there enough staff to provide 24 hour assistance with the daily activities of the residents such eating, dressing, bathing, toileting, toileting and so on?
Are services such as pharmacy, physiotherapy, barber, hairdresser available onsite?
Is there staff support for scheduled and unscheduled needs?
Lastly, you will also need to assess the contracts and costs related to the admission into an assisted living facility.
Is there a written plan concerning the care of each resident?
How are the policies for transfers and refunds?
Will there be a contractual agreement disclosing the health care, supportive services, admission and discharge provisions and all the fees involved?
Are there any programs by the government or non-government organisations that can offer financial assistance for the cost of services in the residence?
Apart from the above, other factors that affect the living conditions of you or your loved ones after admission should also be considered.