We are all getting older.  We are not as spry as we once were.  We are more forgetful today than we were twenty years ago.  And at some point, we are all going to need a little help to get by.  When that time comes, many of my clients ask me about how they should choose an assisted living unit.  When I am asked that question, I talk with them about the process that I used when my mother recently moved to a memory care unit.

Inspect the property. Most assisted living properties are not regulated under Indiana law, and the services provided can differ greatly from one place to another.  A first-hand look offers the best evidence of how a property is maintained and operated.  Are the units furnished or unfurnished?  What are the restrictions on decorating the unit?  How often are the units cleaned?

Investigate the owner. Who owns the property?  Does the owner operate other similar properties?  Where?  How long have those other properties been in operation as compared to the one in question?  What is the overall financial condition of the owner?  How long has the current administrator been there?  How long has the director of nursing been there?

Check out the costs. Is there an admission fee?  How much is such fee?  Is any part of it refundable?  How much?  Under what circumstances is it refundable?  What is the monthly fee?  What services are included in the monthly fee?  Does the monthly fee include utilities, cable television, and telephone service?  Are meals included?  How many?  Are there separate charges for housekeeping and maintenance services?  What other fees can be charged?
Review available medical services.  What medical services are available or provided?  Is there an extra charge?  Can a resident have a private duty nurse or personal care giver?  Is there an emergency alert system?  Can residents choose their own health care providers and prescription drug suppliers?  Is transportation available for health care services?

Discover the criteria for continued care. What happens if a resident’s need for care changes?  What are the criteria for determining whether a resident can no longer stay there?  Who is responsible for making such a decision?
Learn about available activities.  Does the facility have regular social, recreational, and religious activities on site?  What types?  How often?  Are there off-site activities?  Is transportation provided?

This is not an exhaustive list.  It is just some things to think about when the time comes for you or a loved one to move to an assisted living unit.