The search for the right assisted living facility can be daunting, especially for families that have never gone through the process. There are so many assisted living facilities, with each being different and offering something different from other facilities. By being prepared, you will be in a better position to find the best facility for your loved one. Here are a few of the things you should be on the lookout for when investigating potential assisted living facilities.
Staff
Staff members are the backbone of any assisted living facility and they will determine the experience your loved one has at a facility. In addition to ensuring that all nurses and other important staff are well trained, you also want to check the resident to staff ratio. You do not want this ratio to be too high because that means your loved one might not receive the attention they deserve.
Also, check that there are always a few nurses available 24 hours a day and that they can help with activities of daily living such as bathing, dressing, and other activities.
Living Spaces
Some assisted living facilities offer private rooms while others provide shared rooms. Some provide private bathrooms, housecleaning for private spaces, furnishing, pats, and more. You want your loved one to have everything they need and to be as comfortable as possible.
Activities
The best assisted living facilities will have different activities that your loved one can participate in. This can include computer games, water exercises, puzzles, game nights, and special date events. For example, McKnight Place assisted living facility has various activities planned for the whole Christmas season. The members and residents ensure that everyone has fun during this season as it can get very lonely, especially for those who have no one.
Common Spaces
Many assisted living facilities also have common areas where the residents can mingle and interact. These spaces are also often used for various activities in the facilities such as game nights. Outdoor spaces are particularly important for seniors who enjoy nature and the outdoors. Also check whether the facility has special amenities such as a fitness room, salon, or swimming pool. These extras can help make the space a lot more comfortable and accommodating.
Food
Proper nutrition is very important for seniors so you want to ensure that there are adequate, well-balanced meals for the residents. You also want to check whether there are set times for the meals or where the residents can choose when they can eat. You also want to ask about the menu so the food does not become monotonous. Also, ask if you can sample the food while you are there. Many assisted living facilities have no problem honoring this request.
Moving to an assisted living facility will be a jarring experience for your loved one. This is why it is so important to go out of your way to ensure the assisted living facility you choose will be great and as comfortable as possible for your loved one.
