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Assisted Living communities are
popping up all over the country. So
many choices have made identifying
the best value a real consumer
challenge. All communities are
attractive. All offer meals, house -
keeping and activities. However, the
philosophical focus of a community
can mean the difference between simple
maintenance and a comprehensive,
proactive environment.
The most effective assisted living
communities do much more than provide meals, house keeping and
bathing assistance. Choosing well and getting the best value
requires that you ask additional questions.
Start with these:
Do they monitor residents' health and well being,
both physical and psychological?
Ask how. You want to hear that they have a case management system that starts
with a thorough baseline assessment when the person moves in, and an individual
care plan for building strength and managing chronic conditions. You want to
hear that residents are reassessed frequently and that their individual programs
are adjusted accordingly.
Do they encourage independence or dependence?
Expect specific answers that involve teaching the use of assistive devices and
how to manage pain and chronic conditions. Listen for the philosophy that
elderly people should be empowered to remain in control of their own lives.
Avoid any place that seems to treat elderly adults like helpless children.
VALUE-BASED
PERSPECTIVES IN CHOOSING AN
ASSISTED LIVING COMMUNITY
