Use this checklist when touring an Assisted Living community to help find the best fit.

Atmosphere

• Is the community attractive and homelike?
• Do the staff member call residents by name and interact warmly with them?
• Do residents socialize with each other and appear happy and comfortable?
• Are you able to talk with residents about how they like the community and staff?
• Do the residents seem to be appropriate housemates for you or your loved one?

Physical Features

• Is the community clean, free of odors and appropriately heated/cooled?
• Does the community have fire sprinklers and clearly marked exits?
• If the community provides dementia care, does it have a means of security if a resident wanders?
• If desired, what furnishings are provided?
• Do all units have a telephone and cable/satellite TV and how is billing handled?
• Is a kitchen area/unit provided with a refrigerator, sink and cooking element?
• May residents smoke in their units? In public spaces?

Contracts, Costs & Finances

• Review the contractual agreement that discloses services, fees, as well as admission and discharge provisions.
• What is included in the monthly fee? Ask for a written copy.
• Is there a procedure to pay for additional services when the services are needed on a temporary basis?
• What happens when a resident’s needs change?
• Are there different costs for various levels or categories of services?
• Under what circumstances might the fees change?
• When may a contract be terminated and what is the refund policy?
• Are there any government or corporate programs available to help cover the cost of services to the resident?

Medication & Health Care

• What is the policy regarding medication storage and assistance with medication administration?
• How many hours of medication training do staff receive?
• Are staff available to assist residents who experience memory, orientation, or judgment losses?
• What is the procedure for responding to a resident’s medical emergency?
• To what extent are medical services available, and how are these services provided?

Services

• Obtain a list of services available.
• What is the community’s process for assessing a potential resident’s needs?
• Are additional services available if the resident’s needs change?
• Are there special programs for memory impaired residents and those with dementia?
• Are there fees to provide transportation to doctors’ offices, the hairdresser, shopping and other activities desired by residents?
• Can residents arrange for transportation on fairly short notice?

Staff

• What training and qualifications do the staff have?
• Observe staff and resident interactions. Are they positive?
• Did you receive a warm greeting from staff welcoming you to the community?
• Do the staff members treat each other in a professional manner?
• Is a licensed nurse available on-site? If so, during what hours?
• Is staff awake and available at night?

Social & Recreational Activities

• What is the activities program?
• Do residents participate in activities outside of the community?
• Do volunteers, including family members, come into the community to help with or conduct programs?
• Are residents’ pets allowed in the community? Who is responsible for their care?
• Does the community have its own pets?

Food Service

• May meals be provided at a time a resident would like or are there set times for meals?
• Are menus reviewed by a nutritionist?
• May a resident request special foods?
• May residents eat meals in their units?

Make Sure You…

• Know what the service package includes
• Know all costs associated with your service package
• Know about additional services and their associated fees
• Know the circumstances under which fees might change
• Understand the admission agreement
• Understand resident rights and responsibilities
• Understand the services planning process
• Know about the criteria and policies associated with leaving the community
• Contact the state licensing entity (www.ccld.ca.gov) for information on the community’s license

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