Choosing the right assisted living facility for a loved one is a major decision that can feel overwhelming.
Add in an injury or health crisis, which is when many searches get underway, and this difficult process becomes more stressful.
Understanding your local assisted living provider reputations and availability, knowing the right questions to ask, and finding a community that meets your parent’s needs are key to making the best choice.
Key Questions for Comparing Assisted Living
How Do I Pay for Assisted Living?
When determining how much assisted living costs in Florida, it’s important to know that Medicare, Medicaid, and most private health insurance plans don’t cover assisted living. Long-term care insurance often does. The average monthly cost in Florida is around $5,000 but varies by location, residence size, and services offered.
Is the Monthly Rate All-Inclusive?
Ask for a copy of the contract to see which activities of daily living (ADLs) are included. Request the ancillary services fee schedule to find out if extras like transportation, housekeeping, or snacks cost extra. Make sure you understand if fees might increase as care needs change to avoid surprises.
Do They Have Quality Staffing?
Ask whether registered nurses are available 24/7, what the staff-to-resident ratio is, and how often staff turnover happens. Inquire about caregiver training and care philosophy. Talking with caregivers can give you insight into their satisfaction and approach.
Do They Offer Nursing Care?
Ask if the community offers on-site skilled nursing, rehabilitation, and therapy. This is very helpful if a medical issue or injury occurs by reduce the stress of transitioning to a new facility and finding alternative placements. Westminster Communities provide these services within our Life Plan communities to ensure seamless care transitions.
How Engaging Are Their Activities?
Find out if a full-time senior recreation specialist leads programs that promote physical, cognitive, and emotional wellness. Ask about outdoor events, group trips, and sensory-rich activities.
Is There a Resident and Family Council?
Families often search “how to communicate with assisted living staff.” Verify if the community holds regular resident and family meetings to discuss concerns and feedback, helping build trust and responsiveness.
What Is the Occupancy Rate and History of Rate Increases?
When assessing the financial stability of assisted living facilities, stable occupancy rate (90% or above) suggests the community is well-managed. Ask for a five-year history of occupancy and rate changes.
A Checklist for Touring Assisted Living Facilities
When you schedule tours, this checklist will help you observe and ask important questions:
- Are the community grounds, buildings, resident suites, and gathering spaces clean and well-maintained?
- Is the community financially stable? How long has it operated? Is it not-for-profit or for-profit?
- Are staff friendly, respectful, and attentive to residents?
- Are caregivers open to conversations, and do they seem happy in their work?
- Are meals prepared on-site by professional chefs? How is the food quality?
- Are there safe, accessible outdoor spaces residents can enjoy independently?
- Is there a posted calendar of activities that promote physical and intellectual engagement?
- Are residents socializing and active?
- Does the facility offer continuing care options such as skilled nursing or rehab?
- Are memory care services available, and what levels are provided?
At Westminster Communities of Florida, we’ve spent decades supporting seniors and families with trusted advice, compassionate care, and quality living options. Whether you’re comparing assisted living communities in Orlando, assisted living near Jacksonville, or searching for the most affordable assisted living options, we’re here to help you in your search.
Contact us today to learn more or schedule a tour of one of our welcoming communities.