How to Get a Copy of Assisted Living Policies & Procedures

If you or a family member intends to enter an assisted living facility, your interests (or those of your relative) are best served by reviewing the assisted living policies and procedures in advance. There is a procedure to follow to obtain a copy of assisted living policies and procedures before you elect to move into such a facility or enroll a family member in this type of care center.

Instructions

1. Prepare a letter formally requesting a copy of the policies and procedures. Request this information when you have settled on a particular facility. Any time you make such a major decision, it's a good idea to put your request in writing.

2. Deliver the written request for a copy of policies and procedures to the administrator of the facility or the medical or nursing director. Some staff members do not have authority to respond to this type of request for information.

3. Review the document once you get it. Consider having a trusted family member or friend read the materials as well.

4. Compare the assisted living policies and procedures with what is considered to be a standard form of these regulations. You can obtain guidance as to what to expect in typical assisted living policies and procedures from your state's department or division on aging or from the AARP. The AARP may be contacted at:

   AARP
   601 E Street N.W.
   Washington, DC 20049
   888-687-2277
   aarp.org

Tips & Warnings

• If you encounter an assisted living facility that balks at providing you a copy of policies and procedures before you enter the center, take your business somewhere else. There is no legitimate reason for an assisted care or living facility not to provide you with this information.

References

• "Assisted Living Administration: The Knowledge Base;" James E. Allen; 2004
• Resource Center: Assisting Living Facilities

Resources

• AARP: Long-Term Care