Consumer Checklist

Use this checklist when touring an Assisted Living, Memory Care, or Continuing Care Retirement Community to help find the best fit.

Atmosphere

Is the community attractive and homelike?
Do the staff members call residents by name and interact warmly with them?
Do residents socialize with each other and appear happy and comfortable?
Are you able to talk with residents about how they like the community and staff?
Do the residents seem to be appropriate housemates for you or your loved one?

Is the community clean, free of odors, and appropriately heated/cooled?
Does the community have fire sprinklers and clearly marked exits?
If the community provides dementia care, does it have a means of security if a resident wanders?
If desired, are furnishings provided?
Do all units have a telephone and cable/satellite TV?
Is a kitchen area/unit provided with a refrigerator, sink and cooking element?
May residents smoke in their units or in public spaces?

Have you reviewed the contractual agreement that discloses services, fees, and admission and discharge provisions?
Have you received a written copy of what is included in the monthly fee?
Is there a procedure to pay for additional services when the services are needed on a temporary basis?
Have you been informed of what happens when a resident’s needs change?
Have you been informed of the costs for various levels or categories of services?
Have you been informed of the circumstances under which fees might change?
Have you been informed of the circumstances under which a contract may be terminated and the refund policy?
Have you been informed of any government or corporate programs available to help cover the cost of services to the resident?

Have you been informed of the policy regarding medication storage and assistance with medication administration?
Have you been informed of the number of hours of medication training staff receive?
Are staff available to assist residents who experience memory, orientation, or judgment losses?
Have you been informed of the procedure for responding to a resident’s medical emergency?
Have you been informed of any medical services available and how these services are provided?

Have you been given a list of available services?
Have you been informed of the community’s process for assessing a potential resident’s needs?
Are additional services available if the resident’s needs change?
Are there special programs for residents living with dementia or cognitive impairment?
Are there fees to provide transportation to doctors’ offices, the hairdresser, shopping, and other activities desired by residents?
Can residents arrange for transportation on fairly short notice?

Does the activities program have options that are of interest to you or your loved one?
Do residents participate in activities outside of the community?
Do volunteers, including family members, come into the community to help with or conduct programs?
Are residents’ pets allowed in the community?
Does the community have its own pets?

Know what the service package includes
Know all costs associated with your service package
Know about additional services and their associated fees
Know the circumstances under which fees might change
Understand the admission agreement
Understand resident rights and responsibilities
Understand the services planning process
Know about the criteria and policies associated with leaving the community
Contact the state licensing entity (www.ccld.ca.gov) for information on the community’s license

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