Moving yourself or a loved one into an assisted living community is a big step—one that comes with rewards and its own set of challenges. As someone who’s been guiding families through this process for years while in HomeCare and now with SilverSavvy, I understand the emotional and practical complexities involved. It’s a journey that can significantly enhance quality of life, provided it’s handled with care and deep understanding.
I’m Laura Lynn Morrissey, Founder of SilverSavvy. At SilverSavvy, our mission is to provide families with the knowledge and support they need to navigate the often complex world of evaluating and selecting an assisted living community with confidence.
While assisted living facilities offer support as you evaluate and prepare for the move, it’s crucial for families to take a hands-on approach. Being organized and proactive about the decision-making and moving process ensures that your loved one’s transition is as smooth and successful as possible. Simply relying on the facility can sometimes mean missing out on the finer details that truly make a place feel like home.
At SilverSavvy, we’ve helped dozens of families navigate this important transition. I’ve put together this high-level guide to share what I’ve learned from these experiences. It’s packed with essential tips and insights to help you navigate this important transition with confidence and compassion. Let’s have a conversation about how to make this experience positive and fulfilling for your loved one.
7 Critical Questions to Ask When Evaluating an Assisted Living Community
Choosing the right community goes beyond just the amenities and cost. It’s crucial to understand the foundation upon which the community is built. Here are seven essential questions to ask and consider:
- Has the Company Changed Ownership/Is It Financially Stable? Investigate the financial health and stability of the company. Look for information online and ask the Management directly. A stable financial footing suggests a capacity for consistent care and service. According to a study by the National Center for Assisted Living, financial stability is a key indicator of a facility’s ability to provide sustained quality care.
- What Is Their Reputation for Care? Research what both current and past residents and their families say about the community. Online reviews, testimonials, and word-of-mouth can provide invaluable insights into the community’s reputation. According to the National Institute of Health (www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov ) Approximately 40% of assisted living residents experience some level of dissatisfaction with their care, highlighting the importance of thorough research.
- What Is The Leadership Tenure? The longevity of the community’s leadership team is often an indicator of a well-run facility. Frequent changes, especially in resident-facing management, can impact the quality of care.
- What Is The Caregiver Tenure and Training? Explore the turnover rate among caregivers and the training they receive. Higher retention rates and thorough, ongoing training are signs of a supportive and professional environment, meaning a better experience for your loved one. High caregiver turnover can lead to inconsistent care, which affects nearly 50% of residents according to industry reports.
- What Are The Employee Rewards and Recognition Programs? Check if there are programs in place that recognize and reward staff performance. These can significantly impact staff morale and, in our experience, the quality of care provided.
- What Is The Scope of Practice? Assisted living communities are considered non-medical. Ensure you have a clear understanding of the level of care the assisted living community is licensed to perform by asking scenario-based questions:
- Response to Accidents: What procedures do you follow if my loved one falls or has an accident? Are medical personnel available onsite or on-call? How do you coordinate with external medical facilities?
- Handling Health Declines: What steps do you take when a resident’s health suddenly declines? How do you manage emergencies or sudden health changes?
- Chronic Condition Management: How do you support residents with chronic conditions like diabetes or heart disease? What services are provided for medication management, dietary accommodations, and regular health monitoring?
- Transitioning Care Levels: What is your policy for moving a resident to a higher level of care? Who decides, how is it communicated, and what support is provided during the transition?
- Coordinating Medical Appointments: Who is responsible for organizing outside medical appointments? How does this impact the planning and continuity of medical care?
How Does the Community Assist with the Transition Process?
- Personal Interests: How does the community help personalize the new space to reflect the resident’s hobbies and interests, making it feel home-like and reassuring?
- Support System: What support systems are in place to help with the emotional adjustment, such as regular visits from friends and family or community engagement activities?
- Communication Plan: How does the community ensure that residents know how to reach out to both family and staff? What communication plans are implemented to keep them connected and supported?
- Engagement Before Moving: Are there opportunities for prospective residents to participate in community activities or meals before the move to ease anxiety and build familiarity?
These questions help you assess the facility’s readiness and capability to handle common healthcare scenarios and ensure they meet your loved one’s needs both routinely and in emergencies.
Beware These 3 Pitfalls
When helping a loved one transition to an assisted living community, it’s just as important to know what to avoid as it is to know what to do. Here are five critical pitfalls to steer clear of during this sensitive time:
- Don’t Rush the Decision: Making a hurried decision can lead to choosing a community that isn’t the best fit for your loved one’s needs and preferences. Take the time to research, visit multiple communities, and thoroughly assess options to ensure a match that is conducive to their happiness and health.
- Don’t Ignore Your Loved One’s Emotions: It’s crucial to acknowledge and address the emotional challenges your loved one may face during this process. Ignoring their feelings about such a significant change can lead to increased anxiety and depression. Regularly communicate with them, validate their feelings, and involve them in every step to make the decision making process and potentially the transition smoother.
- Don’t Skip the Fine Print: Failing to thoroughly review the terms of the community’s contract, including costs, services, and policies, can lead to unexpected issues later on should you or your loved one’s health or financial circumstances change. Ensure you understand all aspects of the agreement to avoid surprises related to financial obligations or services rendered.
You Don’t Have To Go It Alone; We are Here To Help
At SilverSavvy, we are committed to making your loved one’s evaluation and selection of an assisted living community as informed and thorough as possible. Our consultative services are designed to support you every step of the way, providing personalized guidance tailored to your specific needs. With our extensive experience and compassionate approach, you can be confident in making decisions that enhance the well-being of your loved one.
We would love to hear your feedback on this guide. Looking for more information or assistance in your selection journey? Click to Schedule A Complimentary Consultation! Explore how our services can help find the perfect community. Don’t forget to sign up for our newsletter at www.silversavvy.com to stay informed about the latest tips and insights on aging well.
To You Aging Well,
Founder | SilverSavvy