When touring an assisted living facility, it’s easy to get caught up in the facts and numbers of each option. But what it really comes down to is this: Where do you see your elderly loved one thriving? We have compiled a list of things to look for when touring an assisted living facility, so you can make the decision that is best for you and your loved one.

 

Ask Your Loved One

Talk to your loved one about what is most important in a facility to them.  Do they care more about a wide variety of group activities or frequent outings? Chances are, every facility won’t check off all of their boxes. It helps to make a list and rank their wants from most important to least important before going to tour facilities.

 

Tour Twice

When initially taking a tour of a facility, you will learn about the amenities and services offered from the tour guide. But, if you wonder the campus alone you can see how it truly functions, unaltered. Most facilities will allow for this unchaperoned walk after a tour—just ask.

 

Check Out the Staff

You can tell a lot about how the facility runs by observing the staff. Do they look tired and worn out, or happy and smiling? Observe how the staff interacts with and treats the residents. Ask your tour guide important staff related questions. A great question to start with is, “what is the staff to resident ratio?” These observations can be important factors in deciding which facility is right for your family.

 

Eat a Meal

One of the best ways to observe the overall culture of the facility is to sit down and have a meal with the current residents. By eating with the residents, you can observe their happiness and friendliness. You can ask them important questions like:

• Do you like it here?
• Is the staff nice?
• What is your favorite thing about the facility?
• What is your least favorite thing about the facility?

By eating a meal, you can assess if there are enough food options as well as nutritional value and quality of the food being served.

 

Observe the Outdoors

If outdoor activities are at the top of your loved one’s list of importance, be sure to check out the outdoor areas. Do the designated areas seem overcrowded or worn down? Ask about activities offered and community outdoor events.

 

The more facilities you tour, the more you will realize what questions are important for you and your loved one to ask. Every facility is different, and what is right for someone else might not be right for your loved one. After visiting the facilities, review your loved one’s list of importance and evaluate each facility closely. Choose the place that feels right to you and your loved one. Be confident in your decision, knowing you took the right steps to get there.

 

At Loretto, we’re proud to offer 19 specialized care programs, including our Assisted Living Programs. We believe in taking a holistic approach to care, which means addressing the mind, body, and spirit of the individuals who come to us. Let us help you find your loved one’s new home. Are you interested in touring our facility? Contact us today!