Choosing a Life Plan Community: checklist to review options

Physical Environment

•     Is the community clean and well maintained?
•     Is ample parking available for residents and visitors?
•     Are exterior maintenance, snow removal and landscaping included in the monthly fees?
•     Are there multiple floor plans available?
•     Can residents decorate their cottages, condos or apartments according to their personal tastes?
•     Is the community pet friendly?
•     Does the community have safety features, such as handrails and grab bars?
•     Do individual residences include safety features, such as emergency alert and fire suppression systems?

Levels of Care

    What levels of care does the community offer?

•         Independent living?
•         Assisted living?
•         Skilled nursing care?
•         Short-term rehabilitation?
•         Memory care?

    Do residents have access to in-home care should it be needed?

Resident and Staff Interaction

•     Is the community well staffed overnight?
•     How does the community handle residents who need additional care and support?
•     Do staff members undergo screenings and background checks prior to employment?
•     Are housekeeping and laundry provided?
•     Are transportation services available?
•     Do caregivers interact with residents in positive ways?
•     What is the staff-to-resident ratio for each level of care?

Fees and Costs

•     What services are included in the monthly fee?
•     What services are available for an additional fee? What are the fees?
•     How often do resident rate increases occur?
•     Are there multiple contract options? 
•     Do some contract options offer entrance fee refunds?

Dining Services

•     Does the dining room look and smell inviting?
•     Are the dining room tables, chairs and linens in good condition?
•     Are residents allowed to invite guests for meals?
•     Can residents select their own meal times, or are there designated meal times?
•     Are three daily meals, snacks and beverages included in the monthly rate?
•     Does the resident committee work with the dining staff to develop menus?
•     Can the community accommodate special dietary needs?
•     Is there a dietician or nutritionist involved in meal planning?

Location

•     Is the community conveniently located for friends and family to visit?
•     Is the community in a safe neighborhood?
•     Are there shopping, dining and entertainment options near the community?
•     Is the community near preferred medical providers?

Overall Impression

    Does the community look and feel like a place you could call home?

    Talk with residents and their family members.

•         What do they like about the community?
•         Can they recommend it?
•         Did they consider other options when searching for a community?
•         Why did they choose this community?

Source: www.whereyoulivematters.org, a senior living resource powered by the American Seniors Housing Association (ASHA)