What Sort of Assessment Does Assisted Living Do For Admission?

Date Updated: July 26, 2024

Written by:

Rachel Lustbader

Rachel Lustbader is a writer and editor with a background in healthcare and technology. Her work has been published on websites including HealthCare.com, BiteSizeBio.com, BetterHelp.com, Caring.com, and PayingforSeniorCare.com. She studied health science and public health at Boston University.

Both of Rachel’s grandmothers had very positive experiences in senior living communities, and Rachel saw firsthand the impact that kind, committed caregivers and community managers can have on seniors’ and their family members’ lives. With her work at Caring, Rachel hopes to help other families find communities, caregivers, and at-home products that benefit elderly loved ones and make life less stressful for family caregivers

Assisted living facilities conduct assessments for admission by evaluating an individual’s care needs, health conditions, functional abilities and preferences. This evaluation helps determine if the facility can adequately meet the resident’s requirements and ensure a suitable environment for their well-being. Such assessments also often include cognitive evaluations, as well as an individual’s dietary requirements and interests. Designated staff members conduct admission assessments with individuals and their loved ones, social workers and health care professionals.

Purpose of admission assessments in assisted living

The primary goal of admission assessments is to ensure that an assisted living facility can offer appropriate care and support services tailored to the prospective resident’s needs. These assessments allow caregivers to gather comprehensive information about the individual, including their level of assistance required in daily activities, medical history and medication needs, as well as identifying wellness and social activities that align with their interests.

Assisted living communities periodically update individual care plans to ensure residents’ evolving needs are met effectively. Additionally, staff members revisit service agreements following significant changes, such as illness or injury.

Other considerations when admitting a new resident to assisted living

Staff members should note family contact details, along with preferred methods of communication. It’s also vital that staff obtain information about an individual’s primary care physician, case worker and other medical and support professionals, such as their dentist, optometrist or social worker.Facilities need to know how residents will cover their monthly care costs. This can include Medicaid, waiver programs, long-term care insurance and private pay. The team should also know about relevant legal documents, such as guardianship orders, advance directives and powers of attorney.