When looking for a senior living community, it’s important to know what questions to ask in order to make a knowledgeable decision. Some questions may be obvious, like those about availability and cost, while others aren’t so obvious. Here are a few questions to ask assisted living communities to help make your search less stressful.
Questions to Ask a Senior Living Community
- How are employees recruited, screened, and trained?
The quality of the employees is a key factor in finding out the quality of care provided by an assisted living community. Experience, trustworthiness, empathy, and ongoing training are imperative.
Be sure to ask how team members are recruited and screened, and if background checks are conducted. It’s also significant to ask what kind of training the senior living community offers, and if team member development is ongoing.
Empathy and attentiveness are less tangible but equally important characteristics of a good caregiver. Does the community hire for these traits?
- How Will Your Loved One Spend Their Days?
One of the things everyone wants to know is what will be the lifestyle your loved one will experience at their senior living place. What are the reasons your loved one will be excited about getting up in the morning.
Does the community have programs and activities that will cater to many interests? Research shows that older adults who have opportunities to engage with the world around them and their peers are healthier and happier. Ask to see a calendar. Are the days (including weekends and evenings) scheduled with a variety of selections? When visiting, observe to see if the residents are engaged in the world around them.
- How long does the average employee work there?
If staff turnover is low, residents, caregivers, and families get to know and trust each other. This allows for the stability of care that is so fundamental in resident health and wellness.
Caregiving is a difficult job, both physically and emotionally. Friendships often develop between residents and caregivers which may lead to difficult losses for team members to experience. A lot of credit goes to productive caregivers.
- How are changes in a resident’s needs handled?
The needs of older adults change as they age. It’s important to notice and monitor these changes when they happen. Check with the facility to make sure you know how each senior living community handles these situations.
Is the community able to provide more personal care when necessary? From moving to individual support, what services are available? Will your loved one be required to relocate to receive the care they need? Ask about how the facility communicates with you. Moving is a lot of work at any stage in life, but is especially tough for a senior who isn’t feeling well.
Exploring Your Options for Senior Care
Be sure to do your due diligence when it comes to choosing a place for your loved one. It is worth it for the care and happiness of your loved ones.