Harford The Caregiver's Toolkit

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46 T H E C A R E G I V E R ’ S T O O L K I T
CHAPTER 4
OPTIONS FOR CARE
What to Look for When Selecting an Assisted Living Facility
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to perform, or need help performing, activities of daily living. These facilities provide a place to live as
well as prepared meals, medication administration, and assistance with dressing, bathing, and eating.
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in a nursing home. Facilities can range from a small home with two residents to a large facility with over a
hundred residents. Fee structures also vary, with some charging a single fee, to others charging an “a la
carte” menu of services.
Here are some points to help you in the search:
• Obtain the current listing of licensed facilities from
the Office of Health Care Quality:
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• Know your finances. What can be paid each
month to a facility? Take into account how long
assets are going to last. It would not be ideal
to move into a facility, only to have to leave in
a few months because it is not affordable.
• Narrow the search to a certain geographic
area such as a place that is going to be
convenient for family and friends to visit.
• Determine what atmosphere is a good fit
for your loved one: a larger facility with
planned activities or a small home setting.
• Talk to trusted friends and family about any
experiences they have had with local facilities.
• Call and visit several facilities and take a tour.
While you are there, talk to residents and
other family members to gather feedback.
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disclosure statement. This is a form that is
required to be filled out and made available
upon request. It includes information about
their fees, staffing, and covered services. It is a
good tool to have when making comparisons.
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and price list. Do not be afraid to ask questions!
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ask to speak to the Long-Term Care
Ombudsman (410-638-3577) for guidance
in the selection and placement process.
The Ombudsman serves as an advocate
for those living in long-term care.
• Once you have narrowed down your
choices, visit again. If possible, visit
on a weekend or in the evening. Talk
to staff, visitors, and residents.
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and signed a contract, make sure you
get a copy of your signed contract.
Additional Resources:
Maryland Department of Aging
Office of Health Care Quality
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Harford County Long-Term Care Ombudsman Brochure:
www.harfordcountymd.gov/DocumentCenter/View/6485
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Harford County Department
of Community Services
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