Moving into an assisted living community is a big decision, and for many, also a hard one. It can come with worries of losing your independence, control over your life, and perhaps even your dignity.
That is not true. It is important to note that regardless of which senior living option you choose, you still have your rights. This means that you must be treated with respect, consideration, and full recognition of your human individuality and dignity. Here’s more information on what you should expect.
Assisted Living Laws
In the United States, Florida was one of the first states to start legislating assisted living communities. This means that every provider that offers assisted living has to follow resident care standards. This means that you must be offered assistane or supervision during any of your daily living activities as needed. More importantly, there must be encouragement provided to empower you to live as independently as possible. This is done by creating opportunities for you and the other residents to participate in social, educational, recreational and other community activities that should be available for more than six days a week.
More importantly, you are entitled to convenient phone access to enable you to have unrestricted and private communication. This is a undisputable right and you should exercise this, especially in the event where you need help or to give feedback. This right to privacy also extends to meetings, so long as you abide by reasonably visiting hours and areas and also to your ability to receive and send mail and the tools necessary to do so.
Food Service Standards
For many people, food is one of the best parts of life. This is why you will have the right to certain food service standards when you are living in an assisted living community. All meals provided must meet nutritional standards based on the recommendations of the Food and nutrition board. This must be customized based on activity level, gender, age, and physician recommendations. On top of this, you have rights to snacks at least once a day if you do not have access to a kitchen.
Physical Plant Standards
Lastly, the environment that you live in must be clean and safe. This means that it must be free of any predictable hazards like from electrical, structural or mechanical systems. You should have the option to use your preferred belongings as far as is possible and each room that is offered has to include basic furniture and accessories that improve daily life.
Embark on Senior Assisted Living with Veranda Club
If you or your loved one is contemplating a placement in an assisted living community, here at Veranda Club, we aim to be more than just a place to stay. On top of creating a safe and comfortable abode, it is also crucial for us that all our residents are able to enjoy a fun life that is full of purpose.
If you have any questions about our senior living options or our exclusive senior living programs, you can either fill in this online form or by calling our Leasing & Sales office at 561.332.4698.
