Personal care supports and assists older adults with daily living activities, such as bathing, dressing, and medication management. Family members can learn more about these communities by visiting them in person.
Asking the right questions can help make sure your loved one finds a personal care community that feels like home and meets their personal and medical needs. We explore 22 questions to ask when visiting a personal care community based on the following areas:
- Safety and security
- Community life
- Healthcare and personal care services
- Staffing
- Financial considerations
Understanding a Loved One’s Needs
When exploring personal care communities, consider a loved one’s daily life—do they require assistance with bathing, dressing, moving around, or managing medications? What about mobility or dietary preferences?
Additionally, think about their emotional and social well-being. Does a loved one thrive in active social settings, or do they prefer a quieter, more solitary environment? Their personality and social preferences can help you choose a community where they feel most comfortable and engaged.
22 Questions to Ask When Visiting a Personal Care Community
Choosing a personal care community for a loved one is a decision that often requires balancing emotions with practical considerations. Here are 22 questions to ask when visiting a personal care community on safety, security, community life, care services, staffing, and financial considerations.
Question on Safety & Security
Safety and security are top priorities when selecting a personal care community. Questions based on apartment layout, community design, and how the community maintains residents’ well-being on a day-to-day basis can include:
- Are there security personnel on site?
- What are the protocols for ensuring resident safety?
- How does the community handle emergencies?
- Does the community conduct regular drills or have evacuation plans?
- Is it easy for residents to move around safely?
- Are there grab bars in bathrooms, non-slip flooring, and sufficient lighting?
- What is the process for monitoring residents’ health and safety?
- Are there regular check-ins, and how are potential health issues addressed swiftly?
Questions on Community Life
A vibrant community life can greatly enhance a loved one’s experience. When visiting, ask about the types of social activities offered, such as:
- Are there clubs, exercise classes, or group outings?
- Are there common areas for socializing, such as lounges or gardens?
- Does the community plan events to encourage interaction, like movie nights or guest speakers?
- Are there opportunities for residents to pursue their passions?
The availability of diverse activities helps loved ones remain active and engaged, promoting both their physical and mental well-being.
Questions on Healthcare & Personal Care Services
The quality of healthcare and personal care services in a community is paramount. Reliable medication management is critical for a loved one’s health and safety, particularly for those with complex medication regimens.
Ask questions about the on-site healthcare amenities and the range of services provided:
- Is there a medical team available around the clock, and what type of healthcare professionals are on staff?
- How does the community tailor care plans to individual residents, and how often are these plans reviewed?
- Does the community provide on-site therapy to maintain health and wellness?
- How are medications administered, and what systems are in place to reduce errors?
Questions on Staffing
The staff at a personal care community plays a vital role in a loved one’s everyday lives. Well-trained staff are better equipped to provide high-quality and compassionate care. Ask about the qualifications and training of the care staff:
- What certifications do staff members hold, and how often do they receive ongoing education?
- What is the staff-to-resident ratio?
Questions on Financial Considerations
Financial planning is key when choosing a personal care community. An inclusive fee structure helps avoid unexpected expenses later. Transparency about pricing and potential cost increases is crucial for making a long-term financial commitment.
Questions about cost can include:
- What are the monthly fees and services included?
- Are there additional charges for specialized services, such as physical therapy or memory care?
- Are there financial assistance programs or payment plans available?
- How often do rates increase, and what factors contribute to these changes?
Personal Care at The Terrace at Chestnut Hill
Deciding to move a loved one to a personal care community can be a complex and deeply personal decision, and asking the right questions is vital. By focusing on the specific needs of your loved one, evaluating safety and security measures, exploring community life, and considering healthcare services, you can make an informed choice that aligns with their needs and preferences.
Take your time, gather all the necessary information, and involve your loved one every step of the way. This thoughtful approach will lead to a decision that brings peace of mind to everyone.
Contact The Terrace at Chestnut Hill to learn more about our personalized approach to care and what’s at the heart of our community.
