Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is assisted living?
Assisted living is a residential care/non-medical option for individuals who typically can no longer live independently. It provides or coordinates services to meet residents' individualized needs in ways that promote their independence and reflect their personal choices.
Services vary, but the following services are most frequently found in assisted living facilities:
• Private apartments with bathrooms, an emergency call system
• Three wholesome meals a day and healthy snacks
• Housekeeping and assistance with laundry
• Assistance available for any activity of daily living
• Reminders to take medication, or staff assistance with medication management
• Transportation, i.e., errands, doctor's office, shopping, special events
• Social activities geared at keeping the residents as active as they can be
• Beauty shop services
• Reminders to use bathroom at preset times
Q: What assistance will your staff provide?
Each of our residents is assessed at pre-admission and at the time of admission. This assessment determines the level of care required by the individual. Residents are re-evaluated annually or if there is a change in their condition. While the level of services will vary based on the individual's needs, assistance may be provided with bathing, dressing, medication management and support of daily living. We encourage residents to maintain their independence as much as possible. However, if a resident needs assistance, we are here to help.
Q: What is the difference between an assisted living facility and a nursing home?
An assisted living facility is a residential program for individuals who need help with daily activities, such as personal care, mobility, medications, meal preparation or household chores, but who do not require skilled nursing care. Assisted living programs strive to create a home-like setting that promotes independence. Skilled Nursing Facilities, on the other hand, are designed for people who need daily nursing care. These facilities have nursing staff available 24 hours a day, and have a range of services (social work, occupational and physical therapies, etc.) to meet the residents' health care needs.
Monthly payments can range from $2,500 to $6,000+ depending on unit size and degree of services provided.
Q: Does Medicare cover assisted living facilities?
No, Medicare does not cover any of the cost of assisted living services. Assisted living is most often paid for privately. A number of long term care insurances, however, are beginning to become available to cover assisted living. We will be pleased to research your insurance to determine if there is any applicable coverage.
Q: What kind of staffing do you provide?
Our facilities are staffed and supervised 24 hours a day. Our staff consists of a Director of Nursing Services, Residential Aides (RAs), as well as key Administrative personnel who are all here with the singular purpose of making you feel at home and worry-free.
Q: What type of meals do you provide?
We provide three nutritionally balanced meals each day, and also offer alternate menu choices. Snacks are available 24 hours a day. We are able to accommodate all special dietary requirements. Menus are available, and residents are encouraged to eat in our dining room. Meals are served at tables to help create a more home-like experience. If you or members of your family would like to sample our meals, please ask to do so during your admissions tour.
Q: Can someone help me take my medication?
Many residents move into assisted living because they can no longer manage their medications. A resident's ability to self-administer is determined during the admissions process. If a resident needs support, there are various levels of medication management that are available.
Q: Do you provide daily housekeeping and maintenance services?
Rooms are cleaned on a daily basis, and more often if needed. We provide bedding, and linens for bathing. A laundry area is provided if you prefer to do your own laundry. Personal laundry service is also available. Our maintenance staff is on call daily for your convenience.
Q: What is your emergency and fire evacuation plan?
We review our emergency and fire evacuation plan annually. In addition, we annually test life safety equipment and hold simulated evacuations in cooperation with local fire and emergency services agencies.
Q: Do you have transportation available?
Transportation is available through the facility's wheelchair accessible van to assist residents to and from appointments and errands. If necessary, the staff at the assisted living facility can coordinate directly with your physician and medical service providers in the arranging of your medical appointments.
Q: Can I bring my own furniture and decorate my room?
We encourage you to bring your own furniture to the assisted living facility, and to decorate your room. To maintain the safety of our environment, it is necessary to inspect all furniture and appliances brought into the assisted living facility. If you should need furniture, we can provide the furnishings necessary to appoint your room.
Q: How do I choose an assisted living community that is right for my loved one?
The first step is to make an accurate and honest assessment of what your loved one's physical, financial, mental and lifestyle needs are. The next step is for you and your loved one to visit the facility. Is the staff friendly and knowledgeable? Ask to eat a meal there. Is the food good? Are there meal choices? Does the environment feel like a "good fit" for meeting your loved one's physical and social-emotional needs; does it feel like a community of friends that you'd like to visit often?
Q: How do I get my parents admitted to an assisted living facility?
Ask their physician to complete a physical assessment form provided by the facility and submit it to the assisted living facility you have chosen. If we feel we are able to meet your loved ones needs, our staff will work closely with you and your family to ensure a comfortable transition. We will guide you through the paperwork and will leave no question unanswered.
