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10 Questions Every Family Should Ask
Before Choosing a Senior Living Community

Choosing the right senior living community for someone you love is an important decision. With so many options available, families often feel overwhelmed trying to determine which environment will truly provide the right level of care and quality of life.

Before making a decision, it’s helpful to ask the right questions.

Below are ten important questions Katie Cooney encourages families to consider when exploring assisted living, memory care, independent living, or residential care homes.

Assisted Living Options
The 10 Questions

​1. What level of care does my loved one truly need?

Understanding care needs is the foundation of choosing the right community. Consider mobility, medication management, memory support, and daily living assistance.

2. How will care needs change over time?

Some communities can accommodate increasing care needs, while others may require a move later. Planning ahead helps create stability.

3. What is included in the monthly cost?

Pricing structures vary widely. It's important to understand base costs, additional care fees, and potential increases.

4. How does the community support residents socially and emotionally?

Activities, social engagement, and community culture all play a major role in quality of life.

5. How experienced and stable is the caregiving staff?

Consistent, well-trained caregivers are essential to providing safe and compassionate care.

6. What is the staff-to-resident ratio?

Understanding staffing levels helps families evaluate how much attention residents may receive.

7. What safety measures are in place?

Fall prevention, medication management, and emergency response systems are critical.

8. How close is the community to family and medical providers?

Location matters for family involvement and access to healthcare.

9. What is the transition process like for new residents?

Moving into a community is a major adjustment. Some communities provide stronger support during the transition than others.

10. Does the community feel like the right environment for my loved one?

Beyond care and cost, the overall atmosphere should feel welcoming, supportive, and comfortable.

Navigating senior living decisions can feel overwhelming, especially when families are facing urgent situations.

 

Katie Cooney helps families apply The Katie Cooney Method™ — Care, Location, and Budget — to evaluate communities and make confident decisions.

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If you're exploring senior living options for someone you love, Katie is here to help.

📞 Call Katie: 408-513-7838

info@handnhandsp.com

National Placement Referral Agents
Peninsula Executives Association
Certified Senior Advisor

Get in touch

Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo Alumni
Saint Mary's College, Moraga, Alumni
Rotary Club of Palo Alto/University

Assisted living, memory care, and senior living guidance in Silicon Valley, Peninsula, and

the San Francisco Bay Area. 

Katie works closely with families in communities, including: San Jose • Palo Alto • Los Altos • Menlo Park • Sunnyvale • Mountain View • Cupertino • Campbell • Los Gatos • Saratoga

Palo Alto Senior Living Guidance

San Jose Senior Living Guidance

Hand n' Hand Senior Placement, LLC | P.O. Box 5831, San Jose, CA  95150 

© 2023 by Hand n' Hand Senior Placement, LLC

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