Tips for Choosing an Assisted Living Facility

Submitted by Veronica Quinones, NorthStar Senior Advisors

Choosing an Assisted Living Facility is not only a stressful and difficult time it is also a very emotional decision for all involved. It’s important to know what to look for when considering assisted living for your loved one. North Star Senior Advisors proudly partners with Encore at Avalon Park Assisted Living & Memory Care for a variety of reasons. North Star Senior Advisors’ understands the transitional process and guides families to communities such as Encore at Avalon Park Assisted Living Facility & Memory Care because of the care they provide, programs offered, and their state-of-the art facility. One of the things we like most about this unique community is their Extended Congregate Care license, which can accommodate residents with a higher level of care. They have nurses on staff at all times, as well as certified nursing assistants, that are trained to work with those living with memory impairments, such as Alzheimer’s and dementia.

Not only do our clients love Encore at Avalon Park’s bright and cheerful musical themed neighborhoods, they enjoy the many activities offered which include: local school volunteers, church services, musical programs, chef prepared meals, large rooms, and American Legion meetings. Resident’s do not feel secluded from Avalon Park’s community but rather included with those who live in the East Orlando neighborhood. When touring any community, you’ll want to inquire about menu, meal time, activity programs, visiting physicians, care staff, license type, and room size. You’ll also want to consider having a checklist to compare the different communities that you tour. Honestly, after a while communities tend to blend together.

Some good questions to ask are:

• Is the community conveniently located?
• Is the community attractive and well kept?
• Is the interior free of strong odors?
• Does the community have a security system?
• Does the menu have a variety of foods?
• Can the community accommodate special diets?
• Are refrigerator and microwave provided?
• Is cable/wifi/phone included in rate?
• Are there call lights, pendents, pull cords?
• Is shower walk in with shower chairs?
• Is there an activities area?
• Is there an activities calendar?
• Do residents go on outings?
• Is there an added cost for outings?
• Is there a nurse on staff?
• What is resident /caregiver ratio?
• How often are rooms clean?
• Is there an added cost?
• What is billing method?