When your housing is not quite meeting your needs and
a change is needed, take some time to think about your choices. The list of questions below will help you evaluate the different
housing options and decide what will be best for you. You may even
wish to discuss them with your adult children or close friends and
family so they can help you think about your choices.
There are many housing possibilities for older adults,
and the choices can seem confusing or overwhelming. If
you're thinking a making a change, knowing your preferences, your
level of need for assistance, and your financial resources will
help you narrow the choices.
The following questions highlight these and other factors
for you to consider. They can also serve as a springboard
for discussions with your adult children, family, and friends. Considering
these factors will help you choose a new place to live that will
be right for you.
- Does the residence have the style of living you desire (private
apartment, private room, private bath)?
- Is it attractive and in good repair?
- Does it have the level of comfort you desire (equipment, electronics,
garden areas, space for entertaining or hobbies, windows)?
- What meals are provided? Are the quality and quantity of meals
adequate? Does the food style suit your tastes, nutritional requirements,
and cultural preferences?
- Are the social interactions and recreational programs appealing?
- Is it in a safe neighborhood?
- Is it convenient for shopping, doctor's visits, religious services,
and social contacts?
- Is it reasonably close to your adult children's homes?
- Is public or private transportation provided or easily accessible?
- Do current residents appear to have their needs met?
- Do they seem to be content?
- Do the residents interact well with staff and owners?
- Do staff and residents treat each other with dignity and respect?
- Do staff take the time to listen and respond to residents'
needs?
- What is the staff-to-resident ratio?
- Are residents' rights posted?
- What training does the staff receive?
- What do current residents or their relatives say about their
care?
- Are there restrictions on behavior, such as smoking or drinking
alcohol?
- Are pets allowed?
- Are guests welcome (including overnight guests)?
- Are there formal visiting hours?
- How much flexibility is there in meal times?
- In a shared setting, how are responsibilities determined?
- How are rate increases handled?
- What are the facility's discharge policies?
- Does the facility have requisite safety equipment such as fire
extinguishers and smoke detectors?
- Is there a sprinkler system (in larger facilities)?
- Are conditions sanitary?
- Are doors and locks secure and is there someone on duty 24
hours a day? Is there an emergency call service?
- Is a doctor available around the clock?
- Are there any obvious hazards?
- Are medications and medical care handled properly?
- Are facilities safely accessible for those with physical disabilities?
- Is the facility currently licensed and operating legally?
- Has its license ever been revoked and, if so, why?
- Can you see any recent inspection reports?
- Can you see financial records?
- Can you get references?
- Will this move cause family problems?
- Can everyone living in the house get along with one another?
- Is the space adequate?
- Is the house equipped for the older adult?
- Can the adult child give the parent the attention he or she
needs and expects?
- Are your lifestyles compatible?
- What are the advantages and disadvantages for both parties?
- Are you all comfortable with this serious commitment and reasonably
sure it will work?
Better
Business Bureau (BBB) of Metropolitan New York
This BBB Web page, "Housing Solutions for Seniors," gives
an overview of the many housing alternatives and tips on how to
select one. Scroll to "Health, Beauty and Fitness" and
select the title.
American
Association of Homes and Services for the Aging (AAHSA)
AAHSA has several consumer tip sheets on selecting assisted living
facilities, nursing homes, senior housing, and continuing care retirement
communities.
Eldercare
Locator
This services gives you information on how to locate the nearest
Agency on Aging and a wide variety of community services that support
older adults. Call 1-800-677-1116 weekdays between 9:00 am and 8:00
pm Eastern Time.
Assisted Living Federation
of America
The National Center
for Assisted Living
Both of these organizations offer consumer information on how
to choose an assisted living facility and list facilities.
AARP Caregivers Circle
Board
A discussion (bulletin board) for caregivers to share practical
tips, express ideas, ask questions, tell their stories, share frustrations.
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