This can be a daunting task because there are so many different types of facilities to care for aging seniors. Each type has different services and accepts different payment sources. US News & World Report’s recent article entitled “What Is the Best Way to Research Assisted Living Facilities?” says that there are plenty of resources to help you in your search. Beck, Lenox & Stolzer Estate Planning and Elder Law, LLC have helped guide families with this need in the past 30+ years since Assisted Living Communities became an option.
Begin Early. The sooner you begin the process, the better. Doing assisted living research before you need it is crucial. The decision is frequently made in a crisis situation, which can be dangerous. That is why preparing for these situations sooner is vital.
Create a List. The first step is to make a list of Assisted Living Communities in your area that you might want to tour. AARP recommends the following sources:
- Your local or state agency on aging. To locate one near you, use the federal government’s Eldercare Locator website or call 1-800-677-1116.
- LeadingAge, an association of aging-related organizations. They have an online Aging Services Directory to search for facilities in your area.
- Argentum is a trade association for senior living communities that also has an online directory to search by ZIP code.
- Ask relatives, friends, neighbors, and your loved one’s doctors about recommendations.
Employ a geriatric care manager or local organization that specializes in placement for a loved one. This professional can assist help with your aging loved one’s needs. They will take you to assisted living communities they know and suggest where specialty services, such as memory care for a senior with dementia, are available.
Review the facility’s licensure and accreditation. Make certain the place is licensed and, if needed, has enhanced special needs certification to provide specialized health care for complex conditions and dementia. You should also ask about staff tenure because a high turnover rate is a red flag that the facility is poorly run. It also means your loved one will be meeting new people constantly, which can be stressful. See what choices residents are given to enjoy a high quality of life, such as choosing their meals or participating in fun activities.
Talk to an elder law attorney like those at Beck, Lenox & Stolzer Estate Planning and Elder Law, LLC. Some elder law attorneys may be willing to help with elder care issues as part of their overall services you might need, like estate planning.
Reference: US News & World Report (Nov. 10, 2020) “What Is the Best Way to Research Assisted Living Facilities?”
