For four decades, Steve and Carol’s sprawling Southern California home, surrounded by fruit orchards, was a haven where they raised three children, thrived in their careers and frequently hosted elaborate gatherings for family and friends.
Now 82, Steve has difficulty remembering to take his medication, while Carol, 80, struggles to manage household chores and wants to downsize. They’d like to find an assisted living community that aligns with their discerning tastes and allows them to simplify but maintain their elegant lifestyle.
Their son, Jason, wants to honor his parents’ desire to find assisted living that will provide the extra support they need but also allow them to continue living on their terms in a luxury setting. However, he’s unsure how to choose an assisted living facility or even how to get into an assisted living facility.
In this blog, we share helpful tips on comparing assisted living facilities and questions to ask an assisted living facility as adult children and their aging loved ones begin this transition and start touring senior living communities in Southern California.
How To Find a Good Assisted Living Facility
California has more than 4,100 assisted living communities — the most in the country — with each offering a unique blend of amenities, services and ambiance. Comparing these assisted living communities requires thorough research and consideration to find the best fit for your family’s needs.
Start by creating a detailed list outlining your preferences and necessities, such as preferred location, required level of care, desired amenities, budget and any special considerations like language, dietary needs or cultural preferences.
As you compare assisted living facilities, be sure they’re licensed by the state of California and meet all regulatory standards. You can view licensing information and complaints filed against a community through the California Department of Social Services’ Community Care Licensing Division.
Tap into online directories and resources such as California Department of Health Care Services, Caring and AssistedLiving.org to find assisted living communities in your preferred locations. Ask friends, family members or healthcare professionals your assisted living questions and gather recommendations based on their experiences. Narrow down your options based on location, budget and care needs to create a short list of assisted living facilities to explore further.
Checklist for Assisted Living Facility Tours
- Schedule tours in advance and allocate plenty of time to explore the entire community to gain a better sense of its routine and vibe.
- Approach each tour with an open mind, asking questions and seeking clarification on any concerns.
- Take note of the overall ambiance and atmosphere. Observe the cleanliness and upkeep of common areas, living spaces and outdoor spaces.
- Engage with staff members to assess their friendliness, professionalism and helpfulness.
- Think of a few questions to ask assisted living residents you may encounter during your tour to hear about their experience firsthand.
- Rely on your instincts to choose the community that aligns best with your preferences and impressions gathered during visits.
- Whenever possible, visit your top choices multiple times, including at different times of the day and week.
Questions To Ask About Assisted Living
Preparing a list of questions and concerns to address and taking notes when you tour communities will help you make informed decisions. Here’s a list of assisted living questions to consider:
- What levels of care do you offer, and how do you determine if a resident’s needs change?
- What assistance is available for essential daily living tasks?
- How are staff trained? Are they licensed?
- Are staff members available around the clock?
- What is the staff-to-resident ratio?
- What amenities and services are included?
- What opportunities do you offer for enrichment and connection?
- How do you promote engagement and community involvement?
- Are there valet or driving services available?
- Do you assist with scheduling and managing medical services and appointments?
- What is the food like? Where do residents eat meals? Are there kitchens in the apartments?
- How many other residents live in the community?
- How big are the rooms? Is there closet space?
- Is there a waiting list to get in?
- What types of security, technology and safety measures are in place?
Inspired Assisted Living at The Seville
Opening this fall, The Seville promotes independent living with respectful support for daily activities, catering to seniors who need assistance but don’t require 24-hour medical care.
Luxurious services and amenities, abundant social opportunities and wellness programs, beautifully designed spaces, and breathtaking views are central to our coastal senior living community.
While The Seville is under construction, our dedicated team is ready to welcome you and your loved one to our Discovery Center for personalized appointments. Bring your assisted living checklist, and we’ll answer all your questions. Schedule a visit today.
Featured Image: fizkes / Shutterstock