What to Look for When Touring an Assisted Living Basic Health Community

What to Look for When Touring an Assisted Living Basic Health Community

By Team Writer | September 15, 2024

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In Kentucky, older adults have a senior living option called assisted living basic health which, according to the Kentucky Senior Living Association, is available to seniors who:

• Are ambulatory with or without help or assistive devices.
• Can manage some or all activities of daily living.
• Desire a more social lifestyle. 

While assisted living basic health helps level the playing field for assisted living communities, when touring prospects it’s essential to be observant and ask the right questions.

Questions to ask to find the best assisted living basic health community for your loved one

How is care provided?

One of the most important aspects of assisted living is the care provided. Every senior is different and has unique care needs that often change over time so knowing how care is provided can help shorten the list of possibilities. Begin by watching for staff and resident interaction, which should show how well care and assistance are provided and the relationship between residents and staff.  

At Presbyterian Homes of Kentucky assisted living basic health care is relationship-based with consideration for each resident’s preferences, as well as their needs. Our trained, compassionate staff take time to get to know each resident to build trust, protect dignity, and show respect in everything we do. As described in our blog, “How Assisted Living Basic Health Improves Quality of Life,” our emphasis is on independence with the added benefits of 24-hour licensed medical staff who can provide medication administration and nursing care, supplementing our partnership with each resident’s healthcare providers. By prioritizing relationships we make it easy for residents to maintaining optimal health and pursue a fulfilling and purposeful life. 

What housing choices are offered?

Modern assisted living basic health communities recognize each resident’s desire for privacy and a place of their own to call home. At Presbyterian Homes of Kentucky’s Rose Anna Hughes community, our assisted living basic health apartment floor plans are designed for comfort, safety, and accessibility. Residents also have essential benefit of a personal call system for help and emergencies so they can enjoy worry-free living that is safe and secure. 

What amenities and services are included?

Boredom is one of the least desirable aspects of aging-in-place at home, but in assisted living basic health communities like Presbyterian Homes of Kentucky, boredom is banished! Residents have a daily calendar of fun, engaging, and fulfilling activities and events like games, arts and crafts, excursions, faith-based activities, and more that offer seniors of every ability plenty of choices. When touring assisted living basic care communities be sure to take time to visit all the community spaces like our library, chapel, enclosed courtyard, and multiple activity space to see what each has to offer.

Also important are the services provided. We believe seniors deserve a clean home and clothing so we provide housekeeping, laundry, and linen services in addition to personal care. Residents also benefit from transportation assistance, an on-site beauty salon, wireless internet, cable television, and a pet-friendly environment. For a look at what to expect check out our Senior Resources web page. 

What is the approach to nutrition?

Senior health depends on good nutrition which can become a serious challenge for seniors living at home. According to the clevelandclinic.org article, “Nutrition for Older Adults: Why Eating Well Matters as You Age,” not only do seniors have changing nutritional needs but many also struggle to get groceries and prepare meals that meet those needs. In addition, medications, mental health concerns, and physical problems with chewing and swallowing can also make eating well almost impossible.

When touring assisted living basic health communities it’s a good idea to arrange to eat a meal with residents to not only sample the fare but to get a feel for the atmosphere. At Presbyterian Homes of Kentucky, our restaurant-style dining makes every meal fun and social so residents enjoy the fresh and nutritious menu options. For those who need a little help eating, staff are always available to lend a hand and ensure each resident is eating well.

A note about assisted living basic health affordability

Many seniors and their families don’t consider the option of assisted living basic health because they assume it’s too costly. However, at Presbyterian Homes of Kentucky, we are working hard to provide an option that is all-inclusive and affordable for our residents. As a not-for-profit organization, we welcome seniors of all backgrounds and if financial concerns arise for a resident, we can turn to The Caring Hands Fund to help supplement payments. So when touring each community don’t forget to ask about costs, what’s included, and any funding assistance available.Assisted living basic health at Presbyterian Homes of Kentucky is a warm and welcoming community of friends. Contact us to learn more and schedule a tour.