Consumer Checklist and Guide to Choosing an Assisted Living Residence

Assisted living residences provide supervision, assistance and individual care services to the elderly population and those with disabilities. Knowing what factors to look for when researching assisted living residences can provide peace of mind that the living environment is tailored to fit the individual's lifestyle and assessed needs. A facility's cost, services offered and regulation compliance history provide a sound foundation of characteristics to investigate during an assisted living residence comparison.

Services Offered

• Assisted living residences offer a variety of services that differ from facility to facility. Examples of such services offered include three meals a day, housekeeping, maintenance, whether pets are allowed, personal furnishings, activity programs, physical therapy programs, respite programs, nursing services, transportation, supervision, secure areas for memory care patients, spiritual activities, social services, personal care services or laundry assistance or access. A personal physician of the assisted living candidate often assesses the patient and writes recommendations for care to assist the family in choosing the services needed. A thorough review of all services offered provides peace of mind that the loved one gains individualized care.

Cost

• The first factor to know when considering the cost of an assisted living residence is that Medicaid pays little and Medicare does not cover assisted living care. Assisted living costs are paid through the patient themselves, friends or family. Facilities vary in cost from hundreds of dollars a month to thousands of dollars a month. Services needed by the individual often determine the cost factor.

  It is important to consider all available fund resources when reviewing cost such as the selling of a home or land, stocks or bonds, savings, family incomes and retirement accounts. Admission contracts and resident rights statements offer details regarding cost specifics. An admission contract highlights all costs upfront as well as extra amenity costs and reasons for rate changes. Open discussions regarding charges and monthly rent avoids conflict and hardship later.

Compliance History

• Overseen by state organizations, assisted living residences must meet compliance with state and federal regulations. State organizations in charge of survey processes and compliance checks offer hotlines or websites that highlight crucial information about deficient practices, fining or citations. According to the Consumer Consortium of Assisted Living, compliance information is available through the state ombudsman's office or through Elder Care Services.