Choosing which place is right for your loved is oftentimes the hardest part of the process. Making sure that their care needs along with their emotional needs and personal preferences are met is an important decision. But once a decision is made as to what care provider would be best, it is good to know what the rest of the process entails before a physical move to the home or community takes place. What happens during the admissions process at an Assisted Living Community or Residential Care Home (Board and Care)?
First of all, you can meet with the Administrator of any senior care home and give them as detailed of an account of your loved one’s needs as you feel necessary, but state law requires that all Residential Care Facilities for the Elderly (RCFEs) must perform an assessment of the prospective resident prior to proceeding with admission.
Furthermore, a Physician’s Report must be filled out by a Doctor prior to being admitted to the home. A Physician’s Report is like a ticket to the home. On this report, any primary and secondary diagnoses will be noted, a chest x-ray or skin test will be done to check for Tuberculosis, and the Physician will note the patient’s physical and cognitive abilities.
Once the RCFE completes an assessment, they will review their Admission Agreement with the responsible party. Admission Agreements vary from property to property. As a consumer, you will want to fully understand the rates charged and what services and/or amenities they’re for, refund policies, when to expect rate increases, and eviction procedures. More and more assisted living properties are charging pre-admission fees, so make sure to ask about any pre-admission fee if it is not brought up to you initially.
For assistance in locating the right Board & Care or Assisted Living Community for your loved one, please contact Care Placement. One of our expert placement specialists will discuss what options are available, and they will help you to narrow your choices to what would be best. They will work with you throughout the process of admissions into assisted living as well, to make for as smooth of a transition as possible.