Guidelines:
- Be Safe – Always top priority.
- Is the community licensed to provide health services?
- Is a licensed nurse on-site 24/7?
- Does staff receive on-going training?
- Is there a written care plan for each resident?
- Think Ahead – The community should still be a good fit if needs change.
- Pay attention to ease of navigation and safety measures.
- Ask about care programs, even if you don’t need them now.
- Are pharmacy services available?
- Be Comfortable – The community should be clean and inviting. Is the staff friendly? Do residents appear happy and engaged?
- Be Active – Ask to see the daily calendar.
- Is there plenty to do?
- Is transportation available?
- Are there salon services?
- Exercise Options – Look for a managed fitness center.
- Are there multiple exercise classes?
- Is therapy available?
- Eat Well, Live Well – Stop by for a meal.
- Are there a variety of appetizing and nutritious options?
- Are special diets accommodated?
- Look for heart-healthy choices as well as those rich in anti-oxidants.
- Understand Contracts and Costs – Review the payment structure carefully. Is it a monthly fee, or a buy-in? What are termination and refund policies? How are care charges structured?
- Don’t Forget Memory Care – Ask about dedicated activities for every day enrichment, plus specialized programs for Mild Cognitive Impairment and Alzheimer’s disease. Are there specific goals to help maintain cognitive function?