Essential Questions to Ask When Choosing an Assisted Living Community

As loved ones age, the time comes when families must consider the next steps in their care journey. Finding an assisted living community that aligns with both their needs and preferences plays an essential part.

According to the American Health Care Association (AHCA) and the National Center for Assisted Living (NCAL), there are around 30,600 assisted living communities with nearly 1.2 million licensed beds in the U.S. today.

So how do you choose the right one? The key lies in knowing the right questions to ask assisted living providers.

Use this assisted living checklist below to help guide your assisted living selection.

What Services and Amenities are Available?

When evaluating senior communities, it's essential to assess the services and amenities provided. Common senior care inquiries regarding assistance with daily activities include:

• Bathing
• Dressing
• Medication management
• Personal hygiene support
• Mobility assistance
• Meal preparation

Many communities offer regular housekeeping and laundry services as well. Check if there are fitness centers, social events, or outdoor spaces for relaxation.

With seniors over 65 facing a 70% chance of requiring long-term care in the future, these services play a vital role in ensuring their well-being and comfort. It's also helpful to inquire about specialized care like memory support for those with dementia.

Considering these offerings ensures you find the best fit for your family's needs.

What Are the Staff Qualifications?

"What are the staff qualifications?" is one of the most important questions to ask assisted living communities.

You should also ask questions like:

• What kind of training do the staff members have?
• Are they certified in areas like CPR or dementia care?
• Are there specialized staff, such as nurses or therapists, available?
• What is the staff-to-resident ratio?
• Are the staff members available 24/7 to address emergencies?

Assessing the staff's qualifications ensures your loved one will receive proper care and attention. This gives you peace of mind that their needs are met with expertise and professionalism.

What is Your Healthcare Approach?

The National Council on Aging reports that nearly 95% of seniors have at least one chronic health condition. Another 80% have two or more chronic conditions.

Understanding the healthcare approach is key to choosing the right assisted living community. Key questions to ask assisted living include:

• How does the community manage residents' medical needs?
• Do you work with physicians to create personalized care plans?
• Are there on-site healthcare professionals available?
• How are medical emergencies handled?
• Does the community provide specialized care for conditions like dementia or mobility issues?

Knowing their healthcare philosophy helps ensure your loved one's specific health needs will be met. It provides confidence in the level of care they'll receive.

What Are Your Accommodation Options?

Accommodation options vary between assisted living communities, so it's important to ask the right elder housing questions such as:

• Do you offer private or shared apartments?
• Are there different floor plans to suit individual preferences?
• Are kitchenettes or full kitchens available?
• Can residents bring in their own furniture and decorations?
• What accessibility features are included, such as grab bars or walk-in showers?

Analyzing senior accommodations helps ensure your loved one feels comfortable and at home in their new environment while receiving the care they need.

How Is the Community's Atmosphere?

The atmosphere of an assisted living community plays a big role in residents' happiness. Visit the community in person to observe daily life. From there you can assess your assisted living checklist for key points like:

• Is the environment warm and welcoming?
• Do residents seem engaged and social?
• Are common areas clean, comfortable, and inviting?
• Does the community offer activities and events that match residents' interests?
• How do the staff members interact with residents and with each other?

A positive atmosphere fosters well-being and connection. Evaluating senior communities can help you find the best fit for your loved one.

What Activities Are Offered?

Engaging activities keep residents active, social, and fulfilled. Ask to see the activity calendar to understand the variety of programs available.

• Are there fitness classes, arts and crafts, or music sessions?
• Do you offer social events, game nights, or outings to local attractions?
• Are there lifelong learning opportunities, such as lectures or educational workshops?
• Do you provide intergenerational programs or volunteer opportunities?
• How are activities adapted for different mobility levels and cognitive abilities?

A diverse selection ensures residents stay engaged in ways that suit their interests. Reviewing the activity calendar helps determine if the community offers meaningful experiences that promote overall well-being and enjoyment.

How Are Meals and Dining Services Managed?

Nutrition plays a key role in health and well-being. Pivotal questions to ask assisted living about meal options available in the community include:

• Are meals prepared by a professional chef or nutritionist?
• Do you offer a variety of choices?
• Can you cater to dietary restrictions, such as low-sodium or gluten-free diets?
• Do residents have flexibility in meal times or are they served on a set schedule?
• Do you offer family-style dining or private dining options?

Researching community dining services helps ensure your loved one's dietary needs and preferences are met in a comfortable, social setting.

What Are Your Family Involvement Policies?

Family involvement is important in maintaining connections and ensuring quality care. Ask about the community's policies regarding family visits and involvement in care plans.

• Are family members encouraged to attend meetings with staff to discuss their loved one's progress?
• Can family members participate in community events or outings?
• Do you offer family support groups to help caregivers?
• How does the community communicate updates or concerns with family members?
• Can family members help develop or revise care plans for their loved ones?

Clear communication between staff and family strengthens the care experience and promotes a positive living environment.

Find the Answers to Your Questions to Ask Assisted Living at LakeHouse Escanaba Today

Determining the best assisted living community for your loved one is not something to take lightly. It requires careful consideration and planning. Having the right questions to ask assisted living can help aid in the assisted living selection process and ensure you make an educated and informed decision.

LakeHouse Escanaba, located in Escanaba, MI, offers comfortable Assisted Living accommodations designed to meet the unique needs of each resident. Our warm and supportive environment fosters independence while ensuring personalized care through comprehensive 24/7 support and exceptional services and amenities.

Contact LakeHouse Escanaba to schedule your community tour with us today.