With the aging population steadily increasing, the demand for top-notch assisted living communities is higher than ever. Families are seeking communities that offer not only medical and personal care but also a supportive community and opportunities for meaningful engagement.

Luckily, we can help. Read on to learn the top criteria for selecting assisted living facilities.

Care Levels

When choosing an assisted living community, understanding the different levels of care offered is vital to ensure that your or your loved one’s specific needs are met both now and in the future.

Assisted living is designed for seniors who need some support with daily activities but do not require constant medical care. Services typically include bathing and dressing assistance, medication management, meals, and basic housekeeping. This level of care is ideal for those who need some help with daily tasks but want to keep some independence.

Respite care offers short-term care options designed to give regular caregivers a break while ensuring the senior receives the necessary care. Services can encompass all those provided in assisted living or skilled nursing care. Respite care is ideal for caregivers needing temporary relief or seniors who require short-term care after a hospital stay.

Location

Choosing a senior care community that is close to family and friends is crucial for maintaining regular visits and social connections. Frequent visits can enhance the emotional well-being of residents and provide peace of mind for their loved ones. Being nearby also allows family members to be more involved in the resident’s care and daily activities.

Assess the transportation options provided by the community or available in the local area. Reliable transportation services for medical appointments, shopping trips, and recreational activities are important for maintaining independence.

Some communities offer their own shuttle services. Others may rely on public transportation or partner with local transportation providers.

Being part of a vibrant and active community can greatly enhance resident social life. Communities located in areas with active senior centers, cultural institutions, and community events offer more social opportunities.

This can be particularly important for seniors who thrive on social interaction and community involvement.

Accessibility

Accessibility is one of the top assisted living factors. It directly affects the comfort, safety, and independence of residents.

Each resident’s living space should be designed with accessibility in mind. This includes features such as grab bars in the bathrooms, lowered countertops, and non-slip flooring.

Ensure that the apartments are spacious enough to allow for easy navigation with mobility aids. Adjustable lighting and easily reachable emergency call buttons are also important for safety and convenience.

Outdoor spaces should be easily accessible and safe for residents to enjoy. Look for well-maintained gardens, walking paths, and seating areas that provide opportunities for fresh air and outdoor activities.

Ensure that these areas are equipped with handrails, ramps, and even surfaces. This will help prevent falls and accommodate residents with different levels of mobility.

The community layout and design should prioritize ease of movement for residents. That’s particularly important for those with mobility challenges. Keep an eye out for features such as wide hallways, ramps, and elevators that support wheelchairs and walkers.

Check that common areas, dining rooms, and recreational spaces are easily accessible and free of obstacles that could pose tripping hazards.

Amenities

One of the best assisted living tips experts have is to look at the amenities different communities provide.

Quality dining services are a critical amenity in assisted living communities. Look for communities that offer nutritious, well-balanced meals prepared by professional chefs or dietitians.

It is also important to check if the senior community can support special dietary needs and preferences. These could include low-sodium or diabetic-friendly options. Communal dining areas provide opportunities for social interaction during meal times.

You’ll also want to check for plenty of entertainment options. Search for senior care communities that offer a variety of activities.

Options could include arts and crafts, music therapy, gardening, book clubs, and movie nights. Communities that organize outings to local attractions, cultural events, and shopping trips provide residents with opportunities to explore and remain active in the broader community.

Well-designed social spaces can significantly enhance the sense of community within the community. Common areas, such as lounges, game rooms, and libraries, should be comfortable and inviting, encouraging residents to gather and socialize.

Reputation and Reviews

Like with anything else, you always want to check reviews for senior living communities before you commit.

Start by researching online reviews and ratings. These reviews can provide firsthand accounts of the experiences of residents and their families. Pay attention to any ongoing themes, both positive and negative.

They can indicate consistent strengths or areas of concern. High ratings and generally positive feedback are good signs of a well-managed community

Current resident testimonials and responses from their families can give you a look at daily life in the community. Look for testimonials on the facility’s website. Or, request contact information for references from the facility’s management.

Speaking directly with residents and their families can provide a more personal and detailed perspective on the quality of care, staff interactions, and general happiness.

Safety and Security

Resident safety and security is a major concern when selecting an assisted living community.

Ensure that the community conducts thorough background checks on all employees. Staff should be well-trained in emergency procedures, first aid, CPR, and managing specific health conditions such as dementia or mobility issues. Regular training and drills can help maintain high standards of care and preparedness.

Verify that the community is equipped with smoke detectors, fire alarms, and sprinkler systems throughout the building. Regular fire drills and clear evacuation plans should be in place and practiced routinely to ensure residents and staff know how to respond in case of a fire.

Criteria for Selecting Assisted Living Facilities: Use This Today

Now that you know the criteria for selecting assisted living facilities by reading this assisted living guide, you should be able to make the right senior care selection for your family’s needs.

Are you ready to start choosing senior living in Oklahoma City? Look no further than Morada Southridge. Our pet-friendly communities have tons of activities and services to support seniors in every way we can.