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Questions to Ask Assisted Living Communities
Use this checklist when touring or calling assisted living communities. Bring it with you, take notes, and compare answers across multiple communities.
Costs and contracts
- What is included in the base monthly rate?
- How are care levels determined and priced?
- What triggers a rate increase, and how much notice is given?
- What is the move-in fee? Is any portion refundable?
- Is there a long-term contract, or is it month-to-month?
- What happens if a resident runs out of funds?
Staffing and care
- What is the resident-to-caregiver ratio during the day and overnight?
- How are caregivers hired and trained?
- Is there a nurse on-site, or on-call?
- How are care plans created and updated?
- Who do family members contact with concerns?
Medication support
- How are medications administered — by nurse, caregiver, or resident?
- How are missed doses handled?
- Who manages prescription refills?
- How are new medications or dosage changes communicated to family?
Activities and daily life
- What activities and programs are offered?
- Are meals provided? Can dietary needs be accommodated?
- What transportation is available for appointments and outings?
- Can residents bring their own furniture or belongings?
Memory care and transitions
- Does this community offer memory care, or is it a separate facility?
- Under what circumstances would a resident need to move?
- What is the discharge policy?
- Can residents receive hospice care in place if needed?
This checklist is an educational planning tool. It is not a substitute for medical, legal, or financial advice. Consult qualified professionals for decisions about care, safety, medications, or finances.
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