Questions You Should Ask When Researching Residential Care for the Elderly

Choosing to move your aging loved one into an assisted living facility can be a stressful and emotional time. But, it's important to make finding the right assisted living home an endeavor of logic and careful decision-making rather than just emotions. The best way to do this is to know what questions to ask about any facilities you're interested in.

This guide will walk you through essential questions you need to ask while doing your search. These questions will make sure you have all the information you need to plan for your loved one's care in a safe, comfortable, and engaging environment.

Staff Training and Availability

The quality of care your loved one receives at a home is directly tied to its staff. The more well-trained and available the staff is at a facility, the more likely your loved one will get the best care available. When looking at your facility, ask questions about the staff like:

What kind of training and certifications do your staff members have? Do the staff have up-to-date CNA, RN, LVN, and other licenses? How many of these trained staff are on hand? Asking these questions might feel intrusive, but it's your right to know how well-trained and competent staff are in case your loved one needs help with activities and even in an emergency.
What is the staff-to-resident ratio during the day and overnight? High staff ratios are always best if you want your family member to get the individualized care they need. For example, Residential Care Facilities for the Elderly (RCFEs) often have better staff-to-resident ratios than Skilled Nursing Facilities (SNFs), which are more medically focused and can have anywhere from 10 to 15 patients to one caregiver.
What is the staff turnover rate, and what is the average staff longevity? Turnover rates are a good indicator of how passionate and dedicated staff are to their facility and its clients. When nurses and aides constantly quit, not only does it create a sense of instability, but it can also be a sign that the facility is not adequately supporting its staff.

Care and Services Offered

Your loved one will have different medical and even social needs as they age. Ask questions about the care and services a facility can provide your loved one. For instance:

Do you offer specialized care, such as memory care for Alzheimer's or dementia? For instance, if your loved one has a progressive condition like Alzheimer's, you need to know if the facility can support their changing needs with memory care or other services.
What range of activities and social programs do you offer? A vibrant range of activities is crucial for a resident's quality of life. Ask for an activity calendar and see if it piques your loved one's interests. Are they able to fully engage with the activities? Whether they enjoy social gatherings, arts and crafts, or exercise, don't forget to ask about how your loved one will spend precious free time at a facility.

Living Options and Facility

Remember that a residential facility isn't a short-term hotel or motel - it's your loved one's new home. If your loved one feels comfortable, safe, and accommodated, it'll be easier for them to transition into the facility and even age in place. Ask staff:

What living arrangements are available? Ask about private versus shared rooms, single apartments, options for couples, and any other living arrangements your loved one might need.
Can we see a few of the rooms? During your tour, pay close attention to how clean, well-maintained, and accessible rooms are for your loved one. Do bathrooms have safety features or ADA-compliant sinks? Are there any AC units that aren't working? Is there enough space for your loved one's belongings? Tours are a good time to not just ask questions, but take in the facility and ensure it's the right fit for your loved one.

Costs and Payment

It's not a secret that the cost of moving to a senior living facility can be a hefty investment. But, it's an investment that can improve their quality of life and even ensure your loved one's safety in their golden years. Before enrolling in a facility, understand the cost and benefits, and ask questions like:

What is the breakdown of costs, and what services are included? Get a detailed list of what's covered—from meals and housekeeping to personal care and activities.
What are your payment options? Ask about their policies on private pay, long-term care insurance, and any other accepted payment forms.
What happens if my loved one's financial situation or care needs change? It's important to understand the process and potential cost increases if more intensive care is required down the line.

Making the Right Choice for Your Loved One

Choosing an assisted living facility requires your diligence and compassion. By asking these critical questions, you empower yourself to act as a strong advocate for your aging loved one. The goal is to find a community where they will not only be safe and cared for but also respected, engaged, and happy. Take your time, trust your gut, and involve your loved one in the decision as much as possible to find the perfect place for them to call home.

Learn More About Assisted Living in San Diego

We're here to help you or your loved one begin the next chapter of life and find pleasure and fulfillment in daily living. We can take care of the small stressful stuff and help you focus on health, well-being, and happiness. Get in touch to learn more about our assisted living services.