Choosing an assisted living facility is a big decision, and It can take a lot of time and research to figure out which one is right for you. From price to location to the services provided, there’s a lot to consider. We’ve put together a guide to help make this life-changing decision a little easier.
Understand the Levels of Care in Assisted Living
There are five levels of care when it comes to assisted living care (one being the lowest and five being the highest), making it important to consider both your current healthcare needs and potential care in the future. The levels are determined by how much assistance a person needs with activities of daily living and managing their health. For example, those in need of level one care are likely very independent, while those in need of level five care may have severe physical or cognitive impairment, making it difficult to function on their own.
What to Consider When Looking at Assisted Living Facilities
Your choice of assisted living facility will depend on many factors. You’ll want to make sure you get the care you need in a setting that makes sense for your budget, location and other preferences. While each person’s situation is unique, here are five things to consider when choosing an assisted living facility:
Price: Cost is one of the most significant factors when choosing an assisted living facility. Price will vary depending on variables like the size of the room, if it’s private or shared, activities offered at the facility, type of care and support you need and more. Understanding what your Medicare plan does and doesn’t cover will help give you more insight into the overall cost you’ll be responsible for.
Location: Location is also an important factor. You’ll want to consider the facility’s proximity to family, friends and healthcare providers. You can also keep in mind how the location will factor into your lifestyle—for example, would you rather be close to a city or in a more suburban setting? Keeping these considerations in mind will help you find the right location for your needs.
Services: Assisted living facilities offer a variety of different services, from dining services, to medication management, to exercise and wellness programs. Many also offer tailored services for specific health needs. When evaluating assisted living facilities, remember to prioritize both the health and lifestyle services you need.
Culture: Culture can be difficult to evaluate without actually living at the facility, but visiting in person can help. Whether you’re more introverted or extroverted, engaging with the staff and residents at a facility before you commit to living there will give you a better idea of the community and culture.
Size: You’ll also want to keep the facility’s size in mind. Do you want a smaller, close-knit community or a larger, more active one? The size of the facility will also determine what services and amenities are offered, as well as the staff to resident ratio.
SelectQuote is Your Resource for Your Medicare Coverage
There’s a lot to consider when choosing an assisted living facility, but we can help. At SelectQuote, we’re here to answer any questions you have about assisted living and Medicare coverage. We quickly and easily compare Medicare plans available to you, helping you find the right coverage and care for your needs.
