Assisted living homes, also called residential care facilities, provide long-term housing for elderly adults who need support with day-to-day activities. Unlike nursing home residents, those living in assisted living homes usually receive limited medical care.

Entering assisted living is a big change, but it should also open opportunities to be part of a community. Residents have their own apartments but typically eat together and enjoy social gatherings, outings and other activities.

5 Things to Look Out For at Assisted Living Homes

Unfortunately, not all assisted living facilities live up to high standards. Elder abuse and neglect does sometimes occur in assisted living homes, which is why choosing a high-quality home is critical.

Whether you are looking for you or your loved one’s first assisted living home or considering transferring facilities, here are some good ⸺ and bad ⸺ signs to look out for.

1. Professionalism

Staff at a high-quality assisted living home will be skilled, knowledgeable, compassionate and communicative. They will be happy to answer your questions and be transparent about their certifications, qualifications and training.

Red Flags: Staff at a low-quality home may be rude, dismissive or slow to respond. In some cases, employees are inadequately trained, underqualified or understaffed.

2. A Clean and Safe Environment

Assisted living facilities should be clean and well-maintained. There should be evidence of inspections and adherence to safety regulations, including safety measures like handrails and slip-resistant flooring.

Red Flags: Stay away from facilities that are dirty or feel run-down. If a home’s general cleaning and maintenance are neglected, chances are its residents may be, too.

3. Person-Centered Care Plans

Person-centered care is individualized to each resident and their specific needs and preferences. It ensures each resident receives an appropriate level of care that supports their independence. Ask homes how they build a resident’s care plan and how often plans are assessed and adjusted.

Red Flags: When you ask how care plans are built, if no mention is made of person-centered care or of tailoring to each person’s needs, it may indicate a one-size-fits-all approach. This could mean the home’s policies, practices and staff education are out-of-date.

4. Nutritious Dining Options

A nutritious and varied diet is essential for seniors’ health. A high-quality facility should be happy to share a sample menu and discuss how chefs cater to food allergies, restrictions and preferences.

Red Flags: A low-quality facility may be less than forthcoming with their menu and/or serve substandard or repetitive meals.

5. Stimulating Activities and Social Engagements

Opportunities for social interaction and engaging activities are vital for seniors’ mental and emotional health. High-quality facilities offer diverse activities, like fitness classes, arts and crafts, outing and social events.

Red Flags: Activities at a low-quality facility may be limited or infrequent, leaving residents isolated and bored.

Thinking of Taking Legal Action Against an Assisted Living Home in California?

If you or a loved one has been abused or neglected in an assisted living facility, Peck Law Group is here to help. We serve clients throughout all of California and have helped victims recover millions of dollars in damages. Our team specializes in assisted living, nursing home and elder abuse and neglect, personal injury, wrongful death and more.

Call 866-999-9085 or fill out our online form to request a free case evaluation.

Adam Peck, ESQ

About the Author

Adam J. Peck, ESQ is a principal with Peck Law Group, APC. In 2008, Mr. Adam Peck received his Juris Doctorate from Whittier Law School where he graduated Cum Laude. His practice is primarily dedicated to representing Elders, Dependent Adults, along with their loved ones and family members, who have suffered horrific personal injuries.