Joining an assisted living community can be the perfect next step for your friend or loved one. To choose the right establishment for their needs, you’ll always want to have a detailed tour of the property. From walking around the common areas to checking out the rooms, touring the entire community is always encouraged.
But while walking around the property is vital for making the right decision, asking questions is also very important.
Not sure what questions to ask? Keep reading to learn a few assisted living questions to ask on your next community tour.
What are the Costs? What's Included in Those Costs?
Of course, every assisted living community charges a fee for residency, usually in the form of a monthly payment. However, not everything offered by the organization is included in those costs. There may be additional fees for extra services, room upgrades, special accommodations, and more.
For starters, you’ll want to ask about the monthly charges. Once you’ve learned that number, ask what’s included in that price. While some establishments have an all-inclusive rate, others will charge separately for specific services or accommodations. Given how this can be confusing, you always want to ask about what’s included and what’s an extra fee.
While your tour guide will most likely tell you face-to-face about what’s included, ask for a detailed list in writing. Try to obtain what services and amenities are provided and which ones cost an extra fee. This allows you and your loved one to make an educated decision.
How are Team Members Recruited and Trained?
Some of the most essential assisted living questions relate to the team members working at the organization. During your tour, you should have a clear understanding of how the staff is recruited and trained. After all, you want your loved one to be in good hands. That said, make sure the community you choose has professional, well-trained experts on the job.
We also encourage asking about certain traits of team members. While it’s easy to understand someone’s experience and work history, knowing about human characteristics isn’t as simple. As a caregiver should always have a high level of empathy and attentiveness, you’ll want to ask if the community recruits team members based on these traits. Understanding these details can go a very long way in choosing the right assisted living community.
What Activities are Provided on a Day-to-Day Basis?
Another important factor to consider involves how your loved one will spend their days at the assisted living community. While you always want to ensure top-notch healthcare services and support, your loved one’s lifestyle also holds great importance.
Are there games for residents to play? What events occur every year? What sort of activities are offered? Since you want your loved one to be happy and comfortable, asking these questions is essential.
As you’re asking these questions regarding the lifestyle of community members, think about the following five areas of wellness: intellectual, physical, social, emotional, and spiritual. Does the assisted living community focus on these key areas? If not, you may want to consider a different organization.
What Healthcare Services Are Offered?
Depending on your needs, your love may require specific medical services. However, not every assisted living community offers the same level of care. That said, be sure to ask about the healthcare services offered by the community.
What services are included in the cost? Are there nurses on staff? Are specialized services offered, such as hospice care or cognitive therapy? These are just a few of the questions you could ask during your tour. However, knowing what to ask really depends on your loved one's needs. Before touring a community, sit down with your loved one to determine what healthcare services they require.
What do Residents Eat? Can They Make Special Requests?
When you want your loved one to live a long, happy, and fulfilling life, eating a proper diet is essential. That said, make sure you ask the assisted living community about what residents eat on a daily basis. Are nutritious meals provided? How big are the portions? Asking these questions can help to determine if the organization is the right fit. Also, check if residents can make certain requests regarding food. As we all have different food preferences, you’ll want to choose a community with various food items, including one that caters to the special requests of residents.
Vista Springs: Assisted Living Like No Other
If you’re looking for an assisted community that’s full of life, look no further than Vista Springs. We have 12 convenient locations throughout Michigan and Ohio, and the needs of our residents are always the top priority.
Need answers to your assisted living questions? Whether you want some quick info or you need to schedule a tour, contact us today.
