Questions to Ask Before Moving into an Assisted Living Community

If you or a loved one needs help with activities of daily living (ADLs), but still want to lead a basically independent lifestyle, personalized care in assisted living might be just what you’re looking for. Not only can you receive assistance tailored to your exact needs, but you’ll have plenty of opportunities to meet new people, expand your interests and pursue your hobbies.

However, no two senior living communities are alike, which is why it’s important to find one that matches your preferences. The best way to know if a community is right for you or a loved one is by taking a tour. Take these questions about assisted living with you to make the most of your visit and feel more confident about your future decision. 

Services and Amenities 

As you age, your needs may change, and certain services and amenities may become more or less important to you. By understanding what is available, you can anticipate potential changes and choose a community that provides you with an enriched lifestyle throughout your retirement.

• What services and amenities are included in the monthly fee?
• What types of activities are available to residents, and how often do they occur?
• How do they get residents involved in activities?
• Is there a place where residents can do their own gardening, creative arts or other personal hobbies?
• Are there religious or spiritual services and programs?
• Do they provide transportation services for residents?
• What types of wellness programs do they offer?
• Is there a fitness center, pool and other areas to stay physically active?
• What is their policy on pets?

Dining

Inquiring about dining in a senior living community is an essential step in ensuring that you receive proper nutrition, have opportunities to socialize with your neighbors, and enjoy a high quality of life. Your dining experience should be enjoyable and comfortable, and menu items should be appetizing, no matter your dietary needs.

• How many meals are provided per day?
• Can residents choose when they want to eat, or are there set meal times?
• How often do menus change? Is food prepared daily?
• Do dining venues feel warm and inviting? 
• Is there a cafe for drinks and snacks?
• Does the community provide snacks throughout the day? What kind?
• Can meals be tailored to a resident’s specific dietary needs, restrictions or special requests?
• Are there any dishes that are especially popular with residents? 
• Can you try a meal on the tour?

Safety and Security

It’s important to ask about safety and security measures, because it can give you a better idea of the value a community places on the well-being of residents. A community that features robust protective measures can help you feel more secure and provide peace of mind for family members who may be concerned about your safety.

• Who decides whether to call 911? Are there written policies about how that decision is made?
• Are caregivers trained in CPR and other first aid?
• What safety measures are in place to prevent falls and injuries?
• What kinds of emergencies are staff members expected to handle, and how are they trained for them?
• Under what circumstances does the community call my family? What about the doctor?
• Does each residence have a 24-hour emergency response system?
• Is the community gated?

Staff

By asking questions about assisted living staff, you can gain insight into the culture and values of a retirement community. The staff in assisted living should be compassionate, patient and understanding. They should be able to communicate effectively with residents and their families and create a safe and comfortable environment.

• What is the staff-to-resident ratio during the day and at night?
• What kinds of training do caregivers have? Are they available 24/7?
• Do they conduct background checks on staff members?
• Do staff members interact well with residents? Do they know each other by name?
• How do they ensure that staff members receive ongoing training and education?
• Is there a registered nurse, licensed vocational nurse, or certified nursing assistant on staff? 
• Who gives out medications? If not a nurse, how are staff trained and supervised?
• Is the same caregiver consistently assigned?

Standard of Care

The level of care can vary greatly from one senior living community to another, and it’s essential to ensure that the level of care provided matches your needs. A community with a higher level of care may have more staff and resources available to attend to your needs, which can lead to a better quality of life. It can provide peace of mind for family members, knowing that their loved one is receiving the care and attention they need.

• Does the community prepare a written plan describing how it will care for each resident’s needs? How often is it revised?
• How will family members be involved?
• Do they offer memory care or skilled nursing?
• How does the community make the move and transition to assisted living easier?
• What happens if health care needs change?
• How do caregivers help residents maintain an independent lifestyle?
• How does the community tailor the schedule for bathing and dressing to accommodate the preferences of residents? Can changes be made?
• Are there therapies (like occupational, speech and physical) available on-site?

Physical Appearance

Investigating the physical appearance of a retirement community is essential for ensuring a high quality of life, identifying potential safety concerns, understanding the level of investment in the amenities, and determining if the community is a good fit for your needs and preferences.

• What floor plans are available?
• Do you like the layout of the community?
• Does each residence have good natural lighting?
• Is the community clean? Any odors?
• Are all amenities available and in working order?
• How are maintenance and repairs of residences and common areas handled?
• How does the exterior and interior of the building look? 
• Do they have any outdoor spaces like walking paths, courtyards and gardens?

At Legacy Pointe, We Don’t Just Provide Care, We Provide Compassion. 

Get all your assisted living questions answered on a tour of Legacy Pointe. Our continuing care retirement community in Central Florida accepts new residents directly with no entrance fee required, so you or a loved one can benefit from a higher level of care right now. Contact our sales counselors online or call us at 407-917-6418 to schedule your tour.