When it is time to consider an adult living option for you or a loved one, it is essential to know which questions to ask in order to make your most informed decision. While some questions may seem obvious – such as available rooms and associated costs— other questions may not be quite so evident at the outset. If you have never been through this process before, it can seem overwhelming and confusing. In order to help you to pick the right assisted living facility, we compiled a list of questions to ask as you search.

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5 Important Questions for a Potential Assisted Living Facility

  1. How is staff recruited and screened? What is the training process for each relevant position?
    The quality and cohesiveness of the team is a vital factor in the overall quality of care an assisted living community provides. Experience levels, trustworthiness, compassion and ongoing training are key.Some of these attributes are easier to assess than others, such as team member work experience. Ask how staff is recruited and screened, and make sure that comprehensive background checks are completed. Be sure to ask what type of training the community offers, and if this training is ongoing.While compassion and empathy are more difficult to ascertain and identify in a new team member, ask the assisted living facility how they look for and ensure these traits in those they hire to spend time with residents.
  2.  What is the daily routine?
    Day to day support is essential, but the lifestyle that you or your loved one will experience is just as important. Everyone needs a reason to get up in the morning, something that excites or fulfils them. Does the assisted living facility have an engagement program with options for every interest? Studies have proven that seniors who have engagement with the world and their peers are healthier and happier overall. There are five dimensions of wellness which need to be considered – intellectual, physical, social, emotional and spiritual. You can ask to see a monthly calendar in order to see the selection of activities available to residents. Take a tour and see if residents are engaging with each other and staying occupied.
  3. How long has the average staff member been there?
    The number of team members and the ratio to residents is an important factor, but don’t forget to check on the tenure of the staff. When team member turnover and attrition is low, the residents and their families have an opportunity to get to know and trust their caregivers. Continuity of care is critical to senior resident health and wellness. However, you do need to understand that caregiving is a difficult career, both physically and emotionally. Caregivers in an assisted living facility are subject to losing residents they care about, and day to day the job can be draining and strenuous. So while there may be some expected turnover, too many changes may signal an issue at the facility.
  4. What do the monthly fees include – and what is not included?
    Every assisted living facility structures their fees differently. Some communities are all-inclusive, while others may offer a base monthly fee with necessary care charges charged separately. This can make it difficult to fairly evaluate and compare costs across different residence options. When you inquire about a community’s monthly rates and charges, be sure to identify what is and isn’t included in the quoted price.You can request a comprehensive list of what services and amenities are included in the monthly fee, and what additional charges may be incurred monthly. Along with these additional care costs, excess fees might include transportation, group outings, beauty/barber shop services, laundry, and pet fees.
  5. Does the contract clearly relay the terms of residence?
    The Residency Agreement is a binding legal contract, and you should make sure that you understand all of the terms and conditions – such as notice when vacating, deposits and entrance fee, and rate increase policies.

While there is no one answer for all seniors looking for assisted living options, at A Banyan Residence we are proud of our reputation for being a professional, caring and compassionate solution for aging seniors. If you are in the area of The Villages, call today for a tour and consultation.