Make an accurate and honest assessment of your
physical, financial and lifestyle needs. If you need help with
this assessment, consider consulting a private geriatric care manager,
a professional experienced in assessment and knowledgeable about assisted
living alternatives in your area. The National Association of Professional
Geriatric Care Managers' website provides referrals nationwide - www.caremanager.org.
Visit as many facilities as you can to get a sense of the choices. Consider
the proximity to those who will visit you.
Narrow down your selection to the top two or three choices, and return
to those facilities and ask lots of questions. Speak with residents. Speak
with staff. Eat a meal. Visit at different times of the day and weekend.
Ask for a copy of the resident agreement or contract.
Ask to review the licensing or certification inspection reports.
Call the local long-term care ombudsman’s office
and ask if there are complaints about the facilities you are interested
in.
Make an unannounced visit to the facility.
Choose the facility that comes closest to your needs, remembering that
nothing is perfect.
