Finding the right living arrangement for a loved one can be intimidating, especially if you’re unsure where to start. If you’re considering assisted living but feel unclear about how it differs from nursing homes or if your loved one would benefit from it, you’ve come to the right place.

Assisted living is meant for seniors who want to be independent but could benefit from a little additional support with daily activities. Some of the most important questions to ask assisted living communities when considering a new home for your loved one include those about staff training, accommodations and services available, and the social aspect of living there.

What Is Assisted Living?

Assisted living is designed for individuals who want to maintain independence while receiving assistance with daily activities like dressing, bathing, and medication management. This option often includes a private or semi-private apartment, social events, dining services, and access to health and wellness programs.

How Does Assisted Living Differ From a Nursing Home?

One of the biggest misconceptions about assisted living is that it’s the same as a nursing home. However, these two options serve very different needs.

Level of care: Assisted living supports primarily independent residents who need assistance with daily activities. Nursing homes, on the other hand, are intended for individuals with significant medical conditions who require round-the-clock nursing care.
Living arrangements: Assisted living communities typically offer private apartments or suites with access to communal areas, encouraging an independent lifestyle.
Cost and funding: Assisted living communities are often less expensive than nursing homes, but are usually paid for out of pocket because they focus on non-medical care. Nursing homes, which provide skilled nursing care, are often covered by Medicaid or Medicare for qualifying individuals.

If your loved one doesn’t need intensive medical care but could benefit from some help and a vibrant social environment, assisted living might be the right choice.

How Do I Know If My Loved One Would Benefit From Assisted Living?

Determining whether assisted living is the right option depends on several factors. Look for signs that your loved one struggles with basic tasks or would benefit from more social engagement.

Here are some indicators that assisted living may be a good fit for your loved one:

Difficulty managing personal care, such as bathing or dressing.
Struggles with household tasks like cooking, cleaning, or grocery shopping.
Increasing isolation or lack of social interaction.
Frequent forgetfulness that impacts daily activities.
Concerns for safety at home, such as trips or falls.

If any of these resonate, it may be time to explore assisted living as a supportive and enriching option.

Questions to Ask Assisted Living Communities

When touring an assisted living community, asking the right questions is crucial to ensure the community can meet your loved one’s needs. Consider breaking your questions into categories to cover all care, accommodation, and lifestyle aspects.

Care and Staffing

What level of assistance is provided for daily activities?
Are care plans customized, and how often are they updated?
What medical services are offered on-site or through partnerships?
Is care available 24/7, and how are emergencies handled?

Accommodations and Amenities

What types of living arrangements are available?
Are apartments furnished, or can residents bring their belongings?
Is housekeeping and laundry included?
What dining options exist, and are dietary restrictions accommodated? Can residents access amenities like a gym, garden, or salon?

Community and Social

What activities are planned for residents?
Is there a focus on social engagement or events tailored to individual interests?
Are families encouraged to visit and participate in activities?

Questions to Ask on Your Next Community Tour

An adult looks over their parent’s shoulder to go over questions written on a tablet to ask during an assisted living tour

A tour is your opportunity to experience the environment and imagine what day-to-day life might be like for your loved one. It’s also a chance to ask specific questions to clarify details and spot potential red flags.

Here are practical questions to ask during a tour of an assisted living community:

First impressions: Is the community clean and well-maintained? How welcoming and friendly are staff members? What do current residents have to say about their experience?
Daily life: Can I see a copy of the activity calendar? How do residents usually spend their time here? Is there a structured schedule, or do residents have flexibility?
Safety and accessibility: What safety measures, such as grab bars or alarm systems, are in place? How accessible are apartments and common areas?
Transition support: How does the staff support new residents during transition? Is there an orientation process or initial check-ins?
Costs and billing: What is included in the monthly cost, and are there additional fees? What happens if my loved one’s care needs change over time? Are there any financial aid options available?

How to Decide

Choosing an assisted living community can feel overwhelming, but the process becomes clearer when you know the right questions and what to look for. Take your time, compare options, and involve your loved one in decision-making to ensure they feel comfortable and excited about the next chapter of their life.

Assisted Living at Harrison Bay provides options for individuals who need and appreciate more personalized care. At Harrison Bay, you’ll no longer need to worry about snow removal, lawn care, or home maintenance. We offer options with varying levels of assistance based on your needs, and as they change, so will the services we provide.

Questions To Ask Assisted Living Communities