Checklist Helps You Compare Assisted Living Facilities

So you’re ready to start checking out assisted living facilities. Where do you begin? Many of us have never even been inside an assisted living facility, so it’s often a case of “I don’t know what I don’t know.” Considering how big a move this is—whether it’s for yourself, a parent, or a friend—comparing facilities can add another layer of stress to this major life change. Fortunately, AARP Caregiving offers a simple, straightforward checklist that can help keep you informed and organized.

In this published a special guidance for looking at Assisted Living choices as we grapple with the COVID-19 epidemic, AARP offers suggestions such as asking about infections, family communications, sanitizing procedures, and more.

AARP’s general checklist offers additional questions, divided into three segments: the phone call, the visit, and the contract.

The phone call

The initial screening call is where you’ll ask the basics, such as location, costs, privacy, types of units available, and more. “Bear in mind,” notes AARP, “that the person you speak with will most likely be a marketing or sales representative whose job is to promote the residence.” You’ll gather a lot more info when you visit the facility.

The visit

“As you meet with [staff] and tour a residence, pay close attention to how you feel and what is going on around you,” AARP advises. The checklist reminds you to not just check basic safety issues, but also to note intangibles: “Is the residence cheerful? Do you feel good about it?” Find out what kinds of convenience services the site offers, such as salons or cafes.

AARP suggests you visit each site more than once. “An unscheduled visit on a weekend or in the evening might be very helpful in your decision making.” And don’t hesitate to talk to residents while you’re visiting.

The contract

Ask for a copy of the contract so you can read it at your leisure. The contract will address a wide range of details about daily living. Can you bring your pet with you? Your own furniture and décor? When and where are meals served? What are the visiting policies? Get help “translating” sections that are hard to understand.

Make a well-informed decision

Choosing an assisted living facility may seem overwhelming, but using tools like AARP’s checklist can help ensure you compare apples to apples—and boost your confidence about this important decision. You’ll find a link to the printable checklist on the AARP Caregiving page “Assisted Living: What to Ask.”