Q. We are considering assisted living for a family member; there is so much to consider in selecting the correct facility. What information and tips may BBB have on this type business?
A. Assisted living is one of the fastest growing types of senior housing in the United States. Assisted-living facilities usually provide or coordinate personal care services, 24-hour supervision, scheduled and unscheduled assistance, social activities and some health-related services. These facilities are designed for individuals who cannot live independently but do not need nursing care on a daily basis.
Costs vary according to the residence, room size and types of service needed by the resident. Most assisted-living facilities charge month-to-month rates, which are generally paid by the residents or by their families from their own financial resources. However, Medicaid and some long-term care insurance policies cover some, or all of this type of care. Veterans and their spouses may qualify for Veterans Affairs Assistance and Home Care Services. www.explore.va.gov.
In the Southeast Tennessee and Northwest Georgia area, there are several assisted living facilities to evaluate. Many of those are BBB-accredited businesses and meet membership standards. If you decide an assisted-living facility is the best option for you or a family member, the Better Business Bureau suggests the following tips:
* Visit several facilities and talk to the staff, residents and family members who have loved ones in the facility, preferably twice at each facility (once during the week and once on the weekend or evenings). Ask yourself these questions: Is the facility close enough for family and friends to visit conveniently? Does the atmosphere seem pleasant? Does there appear to be enough staff available? Do the residents and staff seem happy and engaged? Do the residents appear to be clean and well-groomed? Is the facility clean and well-maintained?
* Check licensing as well as complaints filed with your local Department of Human Services and your Better Business Bureau. Also verify the facility's most recent inspection reports.
* Check the facility for safety features including well-lighted stairs and halls, handrails in the bathrooms, well-marked exits and a way to call for help if needed.
* Know what the daily or monthly rates are and what is included in this fee. Vet contracts closely and read the fine print. There may be other services available for an extra charge. Find out if the services are provided by the facility's staff or if arrangements are made with other third party agencies.
* If applicable, find out if the facility accepts Medicaid and your long-term care insurance. Also ask if the facility is Medicaid certified.
* What choices of accommodations are available? Can you get a private room? Do they have rooms with kitchen facilities? Is the bathroom private or shared? Are there private areas other than the bedroom for visits? Is there enough space for personal belongings? What is the policy on laundry care?
* Find out how you or your family will be involved in any future care planning processes. Be sure you know what will happen if you should need skilled care later on. Will you have to move, or will the facility be able to provide the care you need?
* Be sure to check the facility's business review with the Better Business Bureau. www.chattanooga.bbb.org.
Jim Winsett is president of the Better Business Bureau in Chattanooga.