Making the decision to tour assisted living or memory care communities is often an emotional and overwhelming step for families.  It’s not uncommon to feel confused by the sheer number of options, each claiming to provide the best care for your loved one.  The pressure to ensure your loved one’s comfort, safety and quality of care can lead to anxiety and uncertainty about where to begin.  You’re not just choosing a community – you’re entrusting a team with the well-being of someone you love.

Having worked inside these communities as a registered nurse, I understand the ins and outs of how they operate and what families should expect.  There are some items that I consider a red flag, and it’s important that you consider more than how beautiful the community may be.  To make this process more manageable, I’ve developed a checklist for touring assisted living and memory care communities.  Being prepared when you tour will help you identify the community that is the best fit for your loved one.

If you’d like to learn the difference between assisted living and memory care, click here.

The Basics

What is the monthly rate?  How often does the rate increase?

What services are included in the monthly rate?

Do you charge based on the level of care?  What level of care can be provided?

What are the additional charges?

Are the rooms private or shared?

Can residents personalize their rooms?

What is the discharge policy?  How much notice is needed to move out?  Why would you ask someone to leave?

Do you ever require families to provide a private caregiver?  If yes, under what circumstances?

What safety precautions are in place for security of the building and potential wandering?

What is the staff to resident ratio?

What are the visiting policies?

What is the process for being accepted and moving in?  What does the community do to help with the transition?

Amenities

Are meals included?  How many?  Can dietary restrictions be accommodated?

Is housekeeping included?

Is laundry included?

Is transportation to medical appointments, the pharmacy or other places provided?

What social activities are included?

Is there outdoor space?

What type of cognitive and physical activities are offered?

Is there a hair salon on site?

Are pets allowed?

Communication

Are routine updates provided to family?

How are changes in condition relayed to family?

How are changes in medication relayed to family?

Who is the primary point of contact for the family?

Clinical Considerations

What personal care services are included?  (bathing, dressing, toileting, etc.)

Who is in charge?  How long have they been in their position?

What is the staffing for the day and night shift?  (RN, LPN, CMT, CNA)

Are you fully staffed now and are you typically with adequate staffing?

What type of dementia training do employees receive?

Who administers medication?  How is medication supplied to the facility?  Do you have a required pharmacy?

Is there a house physician?  When do they visit?  Do you have a required healthcare provider?

Are there specialists who visit, such as neurology, podiatry, etc.?  

What type of other medical services are available on site?  (labs, imaging, therapy)

What type of care cannot be provided?  (wound care, bed bound, diabetic care, hospice care)

Are care planning meetings held on a routine basis?  How often?  Are familied invited to attend?

What are your procedures for handling medical emergencies?

Conclusion

Choosing the right assisted living or memory care community is a significant decision, but asking the right questions and understanding the available amenities can help you feel more confident in your choice.  Remember, this is about finding a place where your loved one will feel safe, comfortable, supported and valued.  As someone who has worked closely with these communities, I know the difference a well-matched environment can make.

My advice to you is to take your time, trust your instincts, and use this checklist for touring assisted living or memory care communities as you navigate the process.  Feel free to include other questions that are important to you.  With preparation and thoughtful consideration, you can find a community that truly meets your loved one’s needs.

If you need further assistance navigating this process, I’m here to help.  With my expertise as a dementia care consultant and decades of experience in senior care, I can assist you in reviewing state survey results, planning a smooth transition for your loved one, and addressing any feelings of guilt within the family.  I do not receive payment from communities when someone moves in, and I will provide honest and objective advice.  Together, we can ensure you make the best possible decision.  Visit this page to schedule a free consultation and take the next step with confidence.