The decision to put your loved one in an assisted living facility is a difficult one. The ideal home will be convenient to the majority of family members. It should also provide specialized care for chronic conditions or physical disabilities. The costs should fall within a range that’s manageable, and at least partially covered by insurance.
A Hard Choice
Choosing an assisted living facility is a lot of pressure. The well-being and happiness of your loved one require you to make the right choice. Their safety and health should be your main priority above all other considerations. Do plenty of research and keep these things in mind:
1) Staffing Ratios
Adequate staffing is critical to a healthy environment. Without enough nurses and staff, crucial care can fall through the cracks. Staffing ratios should be disclosed by the assisted living administrators.
2) Employee Turnover
Heavy turnover is an indication of dissatisfied workers, which could translate to less than stellar care. The higher the turnover rate, the less consistency your loved one will experience. When the nurses and aides are constantly changing, they can’t build a relationship with your loved one. A facility should provide stability for residents so that they feel comfortable.
3) Location
Proximity to family members is vital for your loved one. Make sure the facility is accessible to as many family members as possible. Visits will boost morale, improve memory, and allow you to check the conditions they’re in.
4) Independence
Moving to an assisted living facility can be a scary experience. They’ve been independent their entire lives, with the freedom to come and go as they please. While it is true that they can’t safely do some of the things they used to do, other aspects of their lives should remain the same. The right balance of safety and freedom is key. Make sure you have a clear understanding of the policies for your loved one.
5) Check For Violations
Although there are strict regulations on assisted living facilities, some with poor track records remain. You can usually find them by doing online research or contacting local or state agencies. Keep in mind the severity of the violation, and whether or not the facility addressed it. A small infraction that was promptly addressed can be overlooked if they have a good record otherwise.
Choosing an Assisted Living Facility
In the end, trust your instincts. There will be some facilities that don’t feel right to you. They may not have any violations and have a wonderful staff, but if it’s not the right fit for your loved one, then move on. We put the care of our residents above everything else. Contact Us today to see how we can help your loved one.
