Questions to Consider When Deciding to Move to Assisted Living

by | Jun 28, 2022

Moving to an assisted living facility is a big decision, one that involves several important factors. 

In addition to finances and potential medical care you or your family also need to weigh everything from location to the kind of food and activities available at a particular facility. 

Some of the biggest questions you should start with include: 

  1. What are your needs?

Do you need assistance with daily tasks, or round-the-clock care? If the second, then it might be time to consider a higher level of care than assisted living. “I always tell my patients, first things first, what are your needs? Why are you thinking about going to assisted living?” Dr. Susann Varano, a geriatrician, told U.S. News and World Report. Create a checklist of things you need help with, taking note of which ones are the highest priority. Then, Dr. Varano recommends taking a look at assisted living facilities to see which ones match those needs most closely. 

couple-learning-more-about-assisted-living

Making the decision – for yourself or for your loved one – to be in assisted living is not easy. But, by asking the right questions, you can start to navigate the process, bringing you closer to the decision that works best for you and your family. 

Remember, the benefits of assistance go beyond just getting help, they also prevent injuries that are more likely to occur when seniors are bathing, cooking, or performing other activities on their own. There is a simple test you can use to determine if it’s time for assisted living. Most assisted care facilities provide help with six basic daily activities: grooming, using the toilet, bathing, dressing, eating, and participation in leisure activities. If a person struggles with at least two of these, then now is the time to make the move. 
  1. What is the cost?
Beyond the basic cost, ask if there are any added fees you need to incorporate into your budget. Also, if you need to move to a higher-level within a community, would the fee change? Do you need to factor in potential future increases in current rates? Take a close look at both the costs and how you plan to pay for them. Do you have assets like a home you can tap into, or will you need to pursue other options? 
  1. Where do you want to be located?
Proximity to family is a benefit to both the family members and the senior. If you are accustomed to seeing your family often, you may want to remain in the same area. If your family lives out of state, this may be a good time to move closer to where they are. 
  1. How is healthcare delivered?
The medical care available at assisted living facilities may vary. What hours is nursing care available – around the clock or during the day? Is the nurse a registered nurse or a licensed practical nurse? How is medication dispensed? If you need more advanced care can you receive it while staying at the facility? You also need to take into account proximity to local healthcare facilities and whether you will be able to continue to see you doctor or other specialists you have. 
  1. What is the facility like? What amenities are available?
In addition to the above fundamentals you also need to evaluate the facility in terms of what kind of lifestyle you would have if you moved there. What kind of food do they typically serve? What kinds of amenities does the facility have? What sorts of activities do they offer?  Making the decision – for yourself or for your loved one – to be in assisted living is not easy. But, by asking the right questions, you can start to navigate the process, bringing you closer to the decision that works best for you and your family.      
Sources included: U.S. News and World Report, Seniors Safety Advice, and Caring.com.