What is an Assisted Living Community?
There are several forms of housing options available to seniors. One of the more popular forms of housing are assisted living communities. These communities are licensed by the state they are located in and provide a combination of housing and personalized services designed to meet the specific needs of the residents that live there. Residents are allowed to live independently and make several choices which meet their needs and wants.
What are the costs associated with Assisted Living communities?
The cost of living in an assisted living community varies with each community and will depend on the type of apartment and the services needed by the resident. The fees for assisted living are usually below fees that you would pay for nursing home care or in-home services. When compared to the costs of living in your own home, assisted living is usually less expensive as well. Residents pay privately for the fees and some assisted living communities may accept long-term care insurance to pay part of the overall costs.
Is Fairfield Village a participant in the Assisted Living Waiver Program?
Yes!
Fairfield Village strives to “be a leader in a caring and compassionate community that fully understands the aging process and the complex issues involved in meeting the needs of those we serve. The community will have a well-funded range of services offering choices in long term care that support a high quality of life.” -COAAA
Questions to ASK
This may assist you in obtaining as much information as you need to make the decision that best fits for you and your family members.
Observe the community:
- Were you greeted promptly and in a professional manner?
- Is the building well maintained and decorated nicely?
- Ask to see the most recent state survey that was conducted at the community.
Ask about the staffing ratio:
- Is there an on site nuse 24 hours a day?
- How many staff members are on each shift?
- What is the ratio of caregivers to residents?
As you tour, pay attention to how the staff interacts with the residents:
- Are you observing friendly interactions between the staff and the residents?
- Were you greeted by any staff or residents?
If you have the time, stay to have a meal at the community and sit with some of the residents. Talk to them and find out what they think of the community:
- Did you observe any activity or social events occurring on your tour?
- Was there an activity calendar posted for you to review?
- Ask to receive a copy of the menu for the month and a copy of the activity calendar.
Try to visit the community at different times, especially at night and on the weekends:
- Does the staffing appear the same during all times?
Fairfield Village strives to “be a leader in a caring and compassionate community that fully understands the aging process and the complex issues involved in meeting the needs of those we serve. The community will have a well-funded range of services offering choices in long term care that support a high quality of life.” -COAAA