How Should You Decide on Assisted Living?

You should primarily decide on an assisted living community based on its cost, reviews and an in-person tour. When you keep the most important factors in mind, it’s much easier to narrow down your list and find the right assisted living community for your needs and budget.

Cost will likely be a primary factor in your decision. According to Genworth’s 2021 Cost of Care survey, the national average monthly cost for assisted living is $4,500, but rates may be higher or lower, depending on a facility’s location and the amenities offered. Assisted living might be a good fit for you if you’re independent with limited medical needs but require help with some activities of daily living (ADLs), such as bathing, dressing, grooming and taking medications.

To select the community that best fits your needs, work closely with a financial planner who has your best interests in mind. These professionals can help you budget for assisted living by factoring in your assets, pension and retirement income. When you visit an assisted living community, ask them to break down the costs for you. Many charge all-inclusive rates, with care and a full suite of amenities available for one convenient price. Others take more of an a la carte approach, with residents only paying for the services they need and use.

Many assisted living communities have dozens of reviews online written by families, loved ones and residents who had a notable experience at the community. By reading them, you’ll be able to determine what a community has to offer and get a feel for what it’s like to live there.

Reviewers share everything, from positives, such as how much they love the staff, to negatives, such as a bad dinner. Consider the average rating for the community and note which factors people liked or disliked. If most reviewers complimented the care team, that’s a good thing. However, if the majority of reviewers criticized them, you should consider another community. Going through reviews also gives you more ideas of what to ask about in person.

Touring the communities you’re considering will give you a better idea of what it might be like to live there. This allows you to see key spaces you’ve only seen in pictures, such as resident rooms, dining areas and activity rooms. It also gives you the opportunity to meet residents and staff and see what they’re like.

Do staff members interact with residents in a friendly and attentive manner? Do residents have opportunities to participate in activities and socialize? Make a list of questions you can answer as you go through the tour. If you notice anything negative, such as neglect or abusive behaviors from staff, you know to check that particular community off your list.