Assisted living facilities provide housing and supportive services for elderly or disabled individuals who require assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs) such as bathing, dressing, and medication management. Here are some key things you should know about your assisted living facility:
- Licensing and regulations: Assisted living facilities are regulated at the state level, and each state has its own licensing and regulatory requirements. Make sure your facility is licensed and in compliance with state regulations. You can check with your state’s Department of Health and Human Services or visit their website for more information.
- Services and amenities: Assisted living facilities offer a range of services and amenities to residents. These may include assistance with ADLs, medication management, housekeeping, meals, transportation, and social activities. Make sure you understand what services and amenities are included in your contract and what additional services may incur extra costs.
- Staff qualifications and training: The quality of care in assisted living facilities depends on the qualifications and training of the staff. Ask about the staff-to-resident ratio, the qualifications of the staff (e.g., nursing degrees, certifications), and the type of training they receive. Look for facilities that have a high staff retention rate, as this can be an indication of a positive work environment.
- Safety and security: Assisted living facilities should have measures in place to ensure the safety and security of their residents. This may include 24-hour staffing, emergency call systems, security cameras, and locked doors. Ask about the facility’s emergency procedures and make sure you understand what to do in case of an emergency.
- Costs and payment: Assisted living facilities can be expensive, and the costs can vary depending on the location, level of care required, and amenities offered. Make sure you understand the costs and payment options (e.g., private pay, Medicaid, long-term care insurance) before signing a contract.
Sources:
- National Center for Assisted Living. (n.d.). Assisted Living. Retrieved from https://www.ahcancal.org/ncal/facts/Pages/Assisted-Living.aspx
- Assisted Living Federation of America. (n.d.). Assisted Living State Regulatory Review 2017. Retrieved from https://www.argentum.org/docs/default-source/research/state-regulatory-review-2017.pdf
- National Institute on Aging. (2017). Assisted Living Facilities. Retrieved from https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/assisted-living-facilities
- AARP. (2021). What to Know About Assisted Living Facilities. Retrieved from https://www.aarp.org/caregiving/home-care/info-2021/assisted-living-facilities.html