It’s one of the most important decisions as your loved ones grow older—when to move into an assisted living facility.

They can help seniors stay active, meet new people, and receive all the care and assistance they need to stay healthy. If you’re living in the Washington, DC area and looking for a facility for your loved ones, you may be feeling a little overwhelmed with options.

How can you know which facility for assisted living in DC is the best? It helps to ask the right questions. Keep reading to learn seven key questions to ask a senior living facility.

1. When Looking for Assisted Living in DC, Ask Yourself what Your Needs Are

Before you start looking for assisted living services, you first need to ask some questions of yourself.

What are you looking for in terms of a facility? Think about what size or type of apartment you’re looking for, the level of care and support needed, and where you’d like to be in terms of location.

Once you’ve narrowed down a few things you must have, along with a few additional preferences, start looking for facilities who fit into those parameters.

2. What Level of Medical Care Does the Facility Offer?

When talking to staff at a potential facility, one of the most important considerations is regarding medical care. You’ll want to ask what level of medical care is provided.

For example, is there a doctor on-site? Are there nurses? If so, are they there all the time, or only during certain hours? You’ll also want to know if it’s possible to move apartments or upgrade the level of care, should your loved one’s health circumstances change.

Check also where the nearest hospital and pharmacy are located, ensuing your relatives have access to all the services they might need.

Getting daily assistance and care is a big reason why many move into assisted living homes, so make sure you fully understand all the medical options of a facility. If your loved ones need more care and medical support over time, you want to make sure they’re able to receive this too.

3. What Amenities and Activities Are Available for Residents?

One of the great things about living in DC is all of the history and fun of the city. There are plenty of activities for seniors to do in the DC area, so ask about which social programs and outings are available.

Most facilities will have a social calendar, offering a range of events (off and on-site) and activities for residents. Have a look and see if it looks like a varied, exciting program that your loved one would enjoy.

You’ll also want to know which amenities are available on site. There should be plenty for residents to do, either in the free time or as part of s structured group activity.

Amenities at Maple Heights include a bistro, exercise room, cinema, and private gardens.

4. Can I Tour the Facility?

You can learn a lot from reading online reviews of facilities, but one of the best ways to decide if it’s for you is by visiting in person.

When you’ve found a facility you’re considering, contact them to book an in-person or virtual tour. Facilities are usually glad to show you around and tell you more about the rooms and amenities.

Try to get a feel for the sizes of the apartments, the condition of the grounds and common rooms, and talk to current residents if you can.

5. Are Staff Trained in Alzheimer’s and Memory Loss?

If your loved one is suffering from a disease such as Alzheimer’s, you know the additional care that is required for them. As we age, memory loss and age-related dementia become more common, so even if your loved one isn’t experiencing them now, they may in the future.

Ask the facility about their experience when it comes to age-related memory loss. Are the staff trained specifically in how to help these residents?

You also may want to know if the facility has a separate wing or area for memory-loss patients. As they may require extra assistance and have different security needs, this is an important consideration for keeping your loved ones safe, now or in the future.

6. Are Meals Included?

When it comes to meals, everyone has different preferences. Are meals included in the monthly fee? Do residents have full cooking facilities within their apartments?

Many people of all ages love the joy of cooking, while others prefer the convenience of eating out. This may change over time, so always ask how meal times work at the facility.

It can also be helpful to know if the facility is able to cater to specific dietary requirements.

7. What Is the Monthly Cost?

Budget is an important consideration when it comes to moving into an assisted living facility. Don’t be afraid to be direct and ask the staff about the monthly cost.

You need to know what’s included within the cost, along with what extra costs you may need to budget for.

In addition to cost, it’s also important to check on availability. Some facilities may have a waiting list, which could be an issue if you’re looking for somewhere where your relative can move in right away.

Contact Maple Heights Senior Living to Learn More

Are you looking for the perfect location for assisted living in DC? If so, Maple Heights Senior Living may be the ideal fit for you and your family.

We are DC’s newest boutique senior living community, conveniently located just minutes from downtown DC. With a wide range of programs, amenities, and a range of floor plans, we have just what you’re looking for.

Contact us today to learn more or to schedule a tour, led by our caring and passionate staff. We look forward to hearing from you and helping your loved one feel right at home.