Now you have made the decision that it is time for long term care for yourself or a loved one the hard part begins. The hard part is finding the best facility you can that is in your price range and will provide you with safe and comfortable care. Knowing what to look for and what questions to ask can help ensure that you are happy with your choice.

The first thing to do is determine how much you are able to spend on your new living arrangements. Facilities that offer alternatives from retirement living through nursing home care are often very expensive. Many require a large payment to buy-in to the facility (very much like buying a condominium) and then have monthly fees for maintenance, housekeeping etc. If you are able to afford it these retirement communities can offer peace of mind in knowing that they do not have to scramble for care when needed.

So what is next once you have determined your price range and the facilities that are in that price range? Let's look at the qualities you should look for.

• Cleanliness

Use your eyes and your nose to evaluate the cleanliness of the places you look at. Look closely for dust and dirt. Sloppy cleaning can give an indication of the type of care. While some residents may have incontinence accidents there should be little or no evidence of these accidents. They should be cleaned up quickly and not just covered up. Be suspicious of strong perfume smells, they may be covering up something. If meals are prepared on site, request a tour of the kitchen, and ask for health department inspection reports. Food borne illness can be especially hard on seniors.
• Safety

Falls leading to fracture can shorten a seniors life and decrease quality of life. Long term care and retirement facilities should take safety measures to prevent falls and injury. I recently looked at a retirement living home for my father, and the first thing I noticed was the lack of handrails in the hallways. I immediately eliminated it as a possibility. There should be no throw rugs, if there is carpet it should have a low pile to make walking easier. The facility should be free of clutter and obstacles. Check for grab bars in the baths, call bells for emergencies and easy access for walkers and wheelchairs. Check also for smoke detectors and fire escapes. Be cautioned against facilities that allow residents to smoke in their rooms.
• Professional Care

Check to see that medical personal is available 24 hours a day for emergencies. On call professional care is not acceptable. Precious time can be lost if emergency care is not immediately available.
• Activities

Loneliness and inactivity can hasten aging and mental decline. Retirement facilities should have a full calendar of activities for residents. A full time activity director is most desirable.
• Personal Comfort

Check that the facility is heated and air conditioned properly and in all areas of the facility. Can personal furnishings be used. Familiar surroundings can make a transition much easier.

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