Elders have many housing possibilities. Learn about your choices and consider alternatives. If you're thinking about making a change, knowing your preferences, your level of need for assistance, and your financial resources will help you narrow the choices. The following questions highlight these and other factors for you to consider. They can also serve as a springboard for discussions with your adult children, family, and friends. Considering these factors will help you choose a new place to live that will be right for you.

Amenities

• Does the residence have the style of living you desire
  (private apartment, private room, private bath)?
• Is it attractive and in good repair?
• Does it have the level of comfort you desire (equipment,
  electronics, garden areas, space for entertaining or hobbies, windows)?
• What meals are provided? Are the quality and quantity of
  meals adequate? Does the food style suit your tastes, nutritional requirements, and cultural preferences?
• Are the social interactions and recreational programs appealing?
  

Location

• Is it in a safe neighborhood?
• Is it convenient for shopping, doctor's visits, religious services
  and social contacts?
• Is it reasonably close to your adult children's homes?
• Is public or private transportation provided or easily accessible?
  

Quality of Care

• Do current residents appear to have their needs met?
• Do they seem to be content?
• Do the residents interact well with staff and owners?
• Do staff and residents treat each other with dignity and respect?
• Do staff take the time to listen and respond to residents' needs?
• What is the staff-to-resident ratio?
• Are residents' rights posted?
• What training does the staff receive?
• What do current residents or their relatives say about their care?

Policies

• Are there restrictions on behavior, such as smoking or
  drinking alcohol?
• Are pets allowed?
• Are guests welcome (including overnight guests)?
• Are there formal visiting hours?
• How much flexibility is there in meal times?
• How are rate increases handled?
• What are the facility's discharge policies?

Safety

• Does the facility have requisite safety equipment such as
  fire extinguishers and smoke detectors?
• Is there a sprinkler system (in larger facilities)?
• Are conditions sanitary?
• Are doors and locks secure and is there someone on duty
  24 hours a day? Is there an emergency call service?
• Is a doctor available around the clock?
• Are there any obvious hazards?
• Are medications and medical care handled properly?
• Are facilities safely accessible for those with physical disabilities?

Business Practices

• Is the facility currently licensed and operating legally?
• Has its license ever been revoked and, if so, why?
• Can you see any recent inspection reports?
• Can you see financial records?
• Can you get references?

Reprinted from www.aarp.org - a site that offers much
helpful information for seniors.

More Helpful Links:
Webmd.com www.webmd.com

National Institute on Aging www.nia.nih.gov and their fact sheets:
www.aoa.dhhs.gov/factsheets/default.htm

Administration on Aging www.aoa.dhhs.gov
FirstGov for Seniors (www.seniors.gov) - the Federal web site for
seniors to access many services.