Key Considerations Before Moving to an Assisted Living Community
The decision to move to an assisted living community is significant and deeply personal. While these communities can offer valuable support for many older adults experiencing cognitive changes or physical limitations, they aren't the right choice for everyone. Before making this important life transition, carefully evaluate several factors that will impact your daily quality of life and overall satisfaction.
Social Engagement Patterns
Consider your natural social tendencies before committing to a community living environment. Assisted living communities typically feature:
Organized group activities throughout the day
Communal dining with potentially assigned seating
Shared spaces for socializing and entertainment
If you're outgoing and enjoy regular social interaction, these features may enhance your quality of life. However, if you value privacy and solitude, the constant social environment might feel overwhelming. Ask yourself honestly: "Do I regularly seek out social gatherings now? Will I enjoy daily interactions with the same group of people?"
Current Living Situation Assessment
Take an objective look at your current living arrangement:
How isolated are you in your present home?
Are you able to access essential services and social connections?
Is home maintenance becoming difficult or unsafe?
Isolation can negatively impact cognitive health and emotional wellbeing, making community living beneficial for some. However, if you have strong support systems and services in place at home, other options may be worth exploring.
Resident Population Compatibility
The composition of residents significantly affects your experience. When visiting potential communities, observe:
The cognitive functioning levels of current residents
The ratio of couples to single residents
Age ranges and general activity levels
Educational backgrounds and interests
Finding a community where you can form meaningful connections with peers at similar cognitive and interest levels is crucial for long-term satisfaction.
Activity Programming Quality
Quality activity programming goes beyond basic entertainment to support cognitive health and meaningful engagement. Inquire about:
Evening and weekend activities, not just ones during the week
Challenging mental activities like lectures, group discussions, or learning opportunities
A mix of physical, creative, and brain-boosting options
Programs that fit different ability levels and interests
Each community is different in how they plan and pay for activities. Communities vary dramatically in their programming philosophy and budget. Look for options that align with your interests and cognitive needs.
Financial Planning
Understanding the full financial picture is essential for long-term security:
Current monthly fees and what they include
Annual rate increase history and policies
Additional charges for extra services (like bathing assistance)
Comparison of fees across different care levels
Request written documentation of all fees and potential increases to avoid surprises later. Some communities may increase rates significantly each year, affecting your long-term ability to remain there.
Service Structure and Costs
Beyond basic rent, assisted living communities typically offer tiered services:
Core services included in base monthly fee
À la carte personal care services with additional charges
Specialized services for memory care or other needs
Understanding exactly which services incur extra fees is crucial. For example, assistance with showering might cost an additional $20-30 per session. These costs can quickly accumulate if not properly anticipated.
Food Quality and Dining Options
Dining experiences significantly impact daily quality of life. During community visits:
Sample meals during different times of day
Ask about accommodation for dietary restrictions or preferences
Observe the dining atmosphere and service model
Inquire about alternative options if scheduled meals don't appeal
Food quality is one of the most common concerns expressed by assisted living residents. Since most communities include meals in their base fee, unsatisfactory dining experiences can lead to significant dissatisfaction.
Environmental Restrictions
Community policies vary widely regarding:
Pet ownership and accommodation
Visitor policies and overnight guests
Personalization of living spaces
Pandemic or illness-related restrictions
Understanding these boundaries before moving in helps prevent disappointment or conflicts later. If maintaining certain freedoms is important to you, ensure the community's policies align with your priorities.
The Alternative: Staying At Home
For many older adults, moving to assisted living is a big, emotional step. Leaving a home full of memories, worrying about losing independence, fitting in with a new group of people, and fears about health or memory changes, are common concerns. But an assisted living residence is not for everyone. There are other ways to get help and support with daily tasks, while staying safe and comfortable at home. Services such as:
Meal delivery services or personal chef visits
Home health aides for help with things like bathing or meds
Technology for safety and health monitoring
Adult day programs for social time and activities
Changes to the home, like grab bars or stair lifts, for safety
How to Make the Right Decision
Choosing assisted living is a big decision. What works for someone else might not be right for you. But with careful thought, you can make a choice that supports your health, happiness, and independence. Take time to think about what you need and want:
Visit a few communities at different times of day several times
Talk to people who live there
Ask your doctor what kind of care is best for you
Discuss the choices with family or someone you trust
About the Author: Dr. Susan Borgaro is a Clinical Neuropsychologist specializing in memory assessment and cognitive enhancement strategies. With over 25 years of experience working with patients across the lifespan, Dr. Borgaro brings both clinical expertise and practical insights to help people optimize their cognitive functioning. www.nasarizona.com