How to Choose the Best Assisted Living Option

Deciding to transition a loved one into an assisted living community is a profound and often complex decision, filled with emotional undertones and practical considerations.

As families embark on this journey, they face the challenge of choosing not just any community but the right one. What makes a community the best choice for your family member?

We can help.

Let's go through the top criteria for selecting assisted living communities.

Location

Choose an assisted living location that is easily accessible for family members and friends to visit regularly. This can help maintain strong family connections and provide emotional support to the resident.

The assisted living community should be in a safe neighborhood with low crime rates. Safety features around the community, such as well-lit streets and secure building access, are also important.

Check for a well-maintained area that reflects a commitment to the residents' safety and quality of life.

Look at the availability of nearby amenities such as shops, parks, restaurants, and other places of interest. That can enhance the resident's lifestyle.

A quieter, more peaceful setting might be preferable for relaxation and well-being. High-traffic areas might be more stressful or disruptive. Assess the level of street noise and the proximity to highways, industrial areas, or airports.

Healthcare Long Term

Evaluate the levels of care provided, from basic assistance with daily activities to more comprehensive medical and nursing care. Confirm whether the community can accommodate changes in health status and increased care needs over time. That way, you won't have to worry about your loved one requiring a move to another community.

Determine how the community manages medication administration and monitoring. Ensure there are systems in place to handle prescriptions, dosage adjustments, and regular reviews by a pharmacist or medical professional.

Dementia Care

If your loved one is living with dementia, you'll want to look at communities that offer specific memory care support. Ensure that the staff is specially trained in dementia care and understands the medical and emotional needs of residents with dementia.

Staff should be trained in handling behavioral challenges and communication difficulties common in dementia patients.

The community should be designed to stop any wandering, a common issue with dementia patients, with secure exits and monitoring systems.

Each resident should have a personalized care plan that addresses their specific needs, stage of dementia, and personal preferences. Care plans should be regularly looked at and changed as the disease progresses or as the resident's needs change.

Activities and Amenities

Ensure the community offers many different activities catering to different interests, abilities, and physical levels. These can include arts and crafts, music sessions, games, movie nights, and book clubs.

Assess the quality and accessibility of outdoor areas. Examples include gardens, walking paths, and patios. These spaces are essential for relaxation, social interaction, and physical activity.

Observe the social dynamic and community feel of the community to ensure that it promotes regular social events like dances, holiday parties, and communal meals.

Check if the community supports clubs or groups based on resident interests, such as knitting clubs, gardening groups, or volunteer programs. Look for communities with options to eat in a communal dining hall or in a more private setting, as preferred.

See if the community provides Wi-Fi access and other technologies that help residents stay connected with family and friends. Some communities offer computer classes or assistance, which can be crucial for residents wanting to maintain digital communication.

If the resident has a pet or is an animal lover, look for communities that are pet-friendly or have regular pet therapy sessions, which can greatly enhance emotional well-being.

Resident Independence and Privacy

Look for communities that offer a range of accommodation options depending on the resident's preference and budget. These might include private rooms, apartments, or shared rooms. Ensure that each private space allows for personalization so residents can bring their own furniture and belongings to make the space feel like home.

The community should have clear policies to protect residents' privacy, including how personal information is handled and confidentiality during medical consultations. Staff should be trained to always knock and seek permission before entering a resident's personal living space.

Feedback from Current Residents and Families

Directly speak with residents about their experiences with elderly assisted living communities. Ask about their daily routines, the care they receive, and their overall satisfaction with the retirement community. Note their demeanor and whether they appear happy and engaged.

Seek out reviews and testimonials from family members of current and former residents. These can often be found on the assisted living community's website, social media pages, or review sites. Pay attention to ongoing positive or negative threads in the reviews.

Assess how transparent the community is with residents and families about changes in policies, care plans, or staffing. Good communication is essential, especially when care needs or operational policies change.

Ask about about the regularity and different methods of communication, such as regular meetings, newsletters, or digital platforms.

Food Quality and Diet Accommodation

When choosing an assisted living community, the quality of food offered and the ability to accommodate specific dietary needs are critical aspects of overall resident satisfaction and health.

Evaluate the taste, presentation, and nutritional value of the meals provided. The food should be appetizing, well-prepared, and suitable for seniors' dietary needs.

Look for menus that offer a variety of choices to keep meals interesting and cater to different tastes.

Assess the dining area atmosphere. Is it welcoming and comfortable? The environment should encourage residents to enjoy meals and socialize.

Consider the meal service times and flexibility. Residents should have options for when and where they eat, whether in a communal dining hall or in their own rooms.

Use This Criteria for Selecting Assisted Living Communities Today

With these criteria for selecting assisted living communities, you'll be able to narrow down the top options for your loved one.

Are you trying to choose a retirement community in a great location that focuses on the engagement and happiness of their residents? Check out Addington Place of Lee's Summit. We're dedicated to providing senior-focused programs to help your loved ones live their best life.