If you are new to the process of selecting care for an aging loved one, you likely don’t have a lot of knowledge around what types of questions should be asked when considering different care facilities. We wanted to compile the important questions we already know about the care facilities we help our clients select to help those that are going through the process for the first time.
Do you currently have rooms available now?
One assumption we see with those dealing with selecting care for a loved one is that every facility has space available. You may find that there is a wait list that could prevent your loved one from being able to enter for several months. Don’t assume that every facility will have immediate care available right when you decide it is time.
Are there additional charges for services labeled outside of the standard care contract?
This is especially important for our clients that have loved ones needing specialized care or could potentially need a higher level of care soon. Many care facilities will offer additional care services or even entertainment options, but you will have to pay additional money outside of the original contract you signed.
How do you assess the level of care my loved one might need?
There are so many options throughout Dallas/Fort Worth that can make selecting the right care very overwhelming. You need to make sure that the facility has an assessment for your loved one to ensure that they have the level of care they require. If a care facility isn’t offering an assessment, you should be asking about how they assess the care needed.
What types of transportation options do you offer?
They might have this detailed out in the contract, but you will want to make sure that your loved one has all their transportation needs met. If they have a need for regular transportation to doctor offices, grocery stores, and other common trips, you will want to make sure all that is covered. Even if your loved one is currently able to drive themselves, this can be a very important detail in the future (or even during some of the crazy inclement weather that Texas gets).
If my parent requires assistance with daily activities on a 24/7 basis (ADLs), do you offer that?
Due to aging or medical reasons, your loved one might be at the care stage level where they need assistance with almost all daily activities (bathing, restroom, eating, etc.). If that is the case, you will want to get as many details as possible around the facility’s 24-hour assistance for them to ensure your loved one is properly taken care of.
Does your staff require any training or certification for the staff?
Each care facility can be different and offer a variety of options around their staff training depending on the different levels of care they provide. If it is important for your loved one to have a nurse on staff, make sure to ask them these kinds of questions.
