Senior Spectrum
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Jan 2008
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“Tools for Choices”
At some point in time, each of us may encounter the need to tour and select a facility for a loved one. The variety of choices are dictated by the needs of the individual, but usually include: A Retirement Community (more independent living with lodging and meals), an Assisted Living Facility (provides lodging and supportive services), a smaller Residential Care Facility (usually 10 or fewer residents in a home), a Home for Individual Residential Care ( only two residents in a home) or a Skilled Nursing Facility (where more medical needs are met).
I thought it might be helpful to provide a check list for use in evaluating each facility as you embark on your selection process:
- As you arrive, do you like the location and outward appearance?
_____ Yes ____No - As you enter the residence, is the décor attractive and homelike?
_____ Yes ____No - Is the residence odor free?
____Yes ____No - Did you receive a warm greeting from staff welcoming you?
_____ Yes ____No - Does the staff call the resident's by name and interact warmly?
_____ Yes ____No - Do the residents socialize with each other and appear happy and comfortable?
_____ Yes ____No - Are you able to talk with residents about how they like staff and the residence?
_____ Yes ____No - Do the residents seem to be appropriate housemates for your loved one?
_____ Yes ____No - Is staff appropriately dressed, personable and outgoing?
_____ Yes ____No - Do the staff members treat each other cordially and with respect and professionally?
_____ Yes ____No - Are staff members you pass during your visit friendly toward you?
_____ Yes ____No - Is the person giving the tour knowledgeable about seniors?
_____Yes ____No - Did you see any meals or review any menus? Did they look appropriate?
_____ Yes ____No
- Did you see any activities or review an activity calendar?
_____ Yes ____No - Did the tour guide give you any history of the facility and it's mission?
_____ Yes ____No - Is the residence well designed for your family members needs?
_____ Yes ____No - Are the carpets clean of debris and soiled areas?
_____ Yes ____No - Is the vinyl or tile in the bathrooms in good repair and clean?
_____ Yes ____No - Does the furniture look well maintained?
_____ Yes ____No - Does the paint appear to be well maintained on doors, walls, halls and rooms?
_____ Yes ____No - Are the resident's bathrooms clean and odor free?
_____ Yes ____No - Do you see laundry build up and full trash receptacles?
_____ Yes ____No - Are the resident rooms clean and beds neatly made?
_____ Yes ____No - Are the plants or flowers in rooms watered and healthy?
_____ Yes ____No - Is the temperature of the residence comfortable?
____ too hot ___ too cold
_____ Yes ____No - Is the lighting adequate and appropriate?
_____ Yes ____No - Does this appear to be a comfortable place for your family member?
_____ Yes ____No - Were all amenities and services explained clearly?
_____ Yes ____No - Were all fees and charges clearly explained?
_____ Yes ____No - Were all your questions answered appropriately?
_____ Yes ____No - Is your overall impression: Outstanding
_____ Very good____Good
_____ Fair_____ Poor _____ - Comments:
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I welcome your feedback and opinions. You may e-mail me at: wendy.simons.consult@gmail.com