Assisted-living, memory care: How did you find a good facility?

I have done a lot of investigating. Every state has its own program. You have to own almost nothing ($2000) to qualify for Medicaid.

I will probably move into assisted living within 2 years.
Right now I have the resources to self pay for 2 years.

The asset limit is low, however most homes are not counted. I’m surprised that most states have AL assistance. But, that’s good to know.

My advice to people looking into any kind of care facility to please do your back ground checks, like state inspection, have they ever been fined and if so for what. What is the staffing like does the facility have a big turn over in staff.
I say this because it may look nice smell good, but you need to look at other things to. If you get a chance to talk to other people and family members please do that.
Remember you are paying to living there. Hope this helps

ask your primary care dr. for recommendations then go check them out. I hope to age in place but it is getting difficult because of declining mobility.

@celia16
If single like I am, the house is included.
The only time it’s not is if you are married. The spouse needs a place to live.

@colleenyoung
There are agencies who will visit and access the conditions of the place. They can also negotiate prices.
You do not pay for their service.
I found one whom I trust, and she will work with/for me soon.

It varies by state, but in my state for Medicaid long term care asset evaluation certain exempt items are equity in residence up to $585,000 (single ownership ok), one car, household property, and certain prepaid burial plans and plots. Although, recovery at death might attach to the residence, unless a spouse lives there. Of course working with an estate planner/Medicaid experienced elder attorney is helpful.

Blessed are those rare few who planned early before they had any health problems and who have excellent long term care coverage. Be careful to avoid potential fees scams of nurse evaluation placing you in a much higher “level of care” than you belong and trying to change all your physicians to theirs. Visit multiple times, read state health inspection reports (even for non-medicaid facilities). Ask about guest policies and any restrictions on going out. Look at the residents and observe whether they look happy and well cared for. Ask about the nursing staff—is there a licensed RN or are you expected to sign agreeing non-medical co personnel can dispense drugs to you. Drug distribution errors happen and you don’t want to be a victim of one. At least, in this state only licensed medical personnel can dispense drugs. Exceptions are: waivers signed by incoming ALF patients. Don’t sign Anything without a lawyer reviewing it and discussing it with you. Numerous residence agreements i’ve seen provide the facility the right to appoint themself as your guardian if they decide you need it (no criteria presented). Referrals of people who have already lived there are good. it’s also helpful to ask to have a meal with a couple residents and ask them questions. i’m still looking.

Elizabeth, you make some excellent observations, and if you don't mind, I would like to tie your remarks, well after my own, to what I said about this many posts ago: know what you want, and where it should take place. You have said very well that you must be clear about what you need from the prospective facility, and with those critical criteria written in a list, take THOSE to your lawyer and ask him/her if it looks like a safe bet at that place. While you may feel that it looks good, all criteria met, the lawyer may cough and ask, 'Okay, but did you notice that.......?'

who are those agencies? in which state?