Assisted Living - What Care Managers Look For When Choosing A Facility

Selecting an assisted living facility for a senior family member or loved one can be a very tricky task. You should do as much research as possible by reading reviews and articles by knowledgeable health care professionals and other trusted sources.

CareGrade interviewed professional care manager Michael Newell, RN, MSN and found out what he looks for in assisted living facilitates. His insight gives a professional's viewpoint and offers advice to consumers looking for these types of services. As a professional geriatric care manager, he earns his living advocating for seniors and is extremely knowledgeable about what seniors and their families should look for when choosing a facility. According to Michael, the following list contains key elements a family should consider when looking into an assisted living facility

1. Identify your goals. What do you want the facility to do? E.g., Some have offer more skilled care than others, some have a nicer setting, some may be nearer to friends and family


2. What hospital would the resident be taken to if he/she got acutely ill? Is it one that you would want to see them in?


3. Who will be doing the primary medical care? Do they come to the facility? Are you or your parent/loved one comfortable with their style and credentials?


4. Don't go for the lowest price. Add up the needs present and likely future care needs of the resident and compare prices that way.


5. Sit in a common area for an hour or so and see how people interact with each other. Is this a setting that you or your loved one would feel comfortable in for the long haul?


6. Ask your local care manager what the reputation is of the facility. A care management consultation will be money well spent.

While researching these facilities may seem like a chore for you, keep in mind it is a life altering event for the senior you are helping. They will often be leaving a home they have had for many years, along with many of their possessions and memories. You should go about selecting an assisted living facility the same way you would look for a new home, as that is what it will become. It is more than just a building, or a room. Each location has its own personality, so look beyond the grand entrance and pretty wall paper and take the time to really get to know the facility before you make any decisions.