Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q. Why do I need to find a facility through Living Options? Can't I just find one on my own?
A.You will not find a comprehensive list of senior care facilities in the Yellow Pages or any other similar directory or any other type of agency. Living Options, on the other hand, has extensive information on the 1500 plus facilities in this general area and we have ranked every one of them. With such extensive knowledge, we can help you select a facility tailored to your specific needs. And, once you have made your selection, we will help you transition to your new home. On top of all of this, we charge you nothing for our services. We save you time, money and headaches. Why not leave the homework to us?
Q. What do you charge clients for your services?
A. Nothing. We are a FREE referral service. We have no hidden charges. Finding a senior care facility through us won't cost you anything.
Q. What are Independent Living facilities?
A. These facilities typically have between 40 and 200 apartments. Residents live in their own apartment but eat in a common dining room where they are served restaurant style, by a waiter or waitress.
Q. What is a Board and Care Home?
A. A Board and Care Home looks like an average home on an average street. It is privately owned and operated but follows strict state government regulations. Usually, six residents live in these homes, either in private or shared rooms. A Board and Care Home usually provides more personalized care than an Assisted Living Facility.
Q. What kind of facilities are available for Alzheimer's patients?
A. Alzheimer's facilities by their very nature are locked facilities so no one can wander away and get hurt. They have special activities just for people with Alzheimer's. Today, Alzheimer’s facilities are warm and caring and have specially trained staff.
Q. What is a CCRC?
A. A CCRC is a Continuing Care Retirement Community. Residents invest in these facilities in addition to paying monthly fees. These types of facilities care for you for the rest of your life and must have Independent Living, Assisted Living and Skilled Nursing units on site.
Q. What does the monthly price include?
A. The monthly price includes rent, utilities, all meals, snacks, weekly apartment cleaning and laundry service and a front desk attendant who accepts mail and packages, takes messages and screens visitors, permitting entrance to authorized persons only. Some facilities also have beauty shops, hobby or activity rooms, gymnasiums, etc.
Q. How do I figure out which type of facility is best for me?
A. In California, every senior must provide a doctor's report to a facility before moving in. Your physician will determine which type of facility you should enter - Independent Living, Assisted Living, a Board and Care Home or an Alzheimer's and Dementia home.
Q. Do I have to apply to get into a facility?
A. Yes, you do have to apply. Each facility assesses each client and determines whether or not they can accommodate that client.
Q. Has the Living Options staff seen first hand all of the facilities available?
A. Yes. Because we care where seniors live, we have scrutinized each and every facility listed in our extensive registry.
Q. How many facilities will you recommend for me?
A. We will recommend between six and twelve to ensure you find one you like. We will happily recommend more, if necessary, until you find one exactly suitable to your needs.
Q. I can't drive but I would like to tour some of the facilities before I select one
A. After we have helped you narrow down your choices, we will arrange transportation for you to the facilities so you can see them yourself.
Q. I can no longer live on my own in my home. If I move to a senior care facility, I'll have to sell my house, sort through my belongings and pack up the items I want to take with me. Can you help
A. Yes. We can refer you to a real estate agent in your area. If you would like to scale down on your furniture or other household items, we can arrange an estate sale, or other options as well. We will help you with every aspect of transitioning to your new home.
Q. Do I have to sell all of my own furniture before I move in?
A. No. You can bring your own furniture and decorate your home according to your own taste.
Q. What if I need a special diet?
A. The facilities will accommodate you
Q. Can I bring a pet?
A. Yes. Facilities allow you to bring many types of small pets that you can take care of yourself.
Q. Can my family visit on my birthday?
A. Absolutely. Most facilities also provide a private dining room, at no extra charge, which you can use to celebrate special events.
Q. How often can my family visit me?
A. Your family can visit as often as they like.
Q. How will I get to church?
A. Clergy from several religious denominations conduct services in many of the facilities. If your denomination does not, the staff will arrange transportation for you to your house of worship.
Q. How will I get my hair cut? What do I do if I want to go to the mall or to a movie?
A. Most facilities have beauty salons on the premises. They will also provide you with transportation for trips and outings.
Q. What if I change my mind? How can I get out of my rental contract?
A. Except for homes in which you invest with a "buy in" such as a CCRC (Continuing Care Retirement Community), the terms of your lease are month to month. If you don't wish to be in that facility any longer, you simply give a 30-day notice and we will help you find something else.
Call us today for a FREE, NO-OBLIGATION consultation: 866-402-8080
