Questions They Don't Want You To Ask
When Looking For An Assisted Living Facility
By Simone Sullivan
Copyright 2011 Simone Sullivan
Smashwords Edition, License Notes
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Whether you are selecting a retirement community for yourself or a loved one, you want to make sure before anything else, that it is safe. There are many hidden issues that you should address before this very important decision is made. The goal of this book is to make you aware of these issues, so you can make a sound and informed decision before you commit to a life changing situation.
Retirement Communities are very similar to apartment, condo or villa living. Assisted Living Communities (often called "Assisted Living Facilities") are required to abide by certain rules and/or laws. The information in this book is aimed mainly at Assisted Living Facilities although you will be able to apply some of this information to Retirement Communities also. Now, let's get started!
If possible, take a year to look at one, two or even three of your best choices. Why? Several reasons. You have to remember, these communities ("facilities" if assisted living) are in it for the money. Your money to be exact. There is much money to be made in the Retirement Communities and Assisted Living Facilities. Remember, the "baby boomers" are alive and kicking, and please, just because the communities and facilities claim they are Christian, this does not mean what you may think it means. You can sit in your garage all night and call yourself a car, truth is; you are still not a car. So let's begin by placing all your choices on the same playing field. Most of the communities will offer marketing functions such as "Lunch and Learns" or some other invitation to get you in the door to see what they offer. Many times they will serve you a mean in their dining room and take you on a supervised tour afterwards. They probably presented you with information while you were dining, and answered questions while you were touring. Remember, this is not their first rodeo. All the information given to you is no different from any other sales pitch. Oh yes, they might even have a handful of "residents" at this function to show you just how wonderful their community is! Unfortunately many times these "residents" are just as much in the dark as you are, because they did not know the questions to ask prior their moving in, or what look for behind the scene. That is why I suggest taking a good year to look around. It will take that long to do your homework.
First, when you walk in, the obvious, odor and cleanliness. Do you detect any strange or foul odors? Is there dirt, dust or dust balls lurking around? How clean are the windows and floors? Do the residents look content? Read their "body language". Do you notice them conversing with one another, or are they walking around aimlessly? Notice the interaction between staff and residents. Listen and look for bossy, disrespectful or condescending behavior from staff to resident. You might not notice these behaviors the first time or even the second, but if you visit for a while, it will come out if you are paying attention.