You may or may not remember that I moved into an Assisted Living facility this past August 27. I’ve been learning a lot about facilities like this one since then. Things I should have checked out, questions I should have asked, records I should have read before committing to this arrangement.
First of all, if it seems like it’s too good to be true, of course it is! I’ve known that all my life, but in my haste to get away from the way things had deteriorated at my former residence I didn’t stop to think about the old “frying pan into the fire” situation. Never for one minute should anyone think that things couldn’t get worse. Take my word for it, they can and they will! Check out any Assisted Living facility closely. Not just the surface, which can be decietful, but look under the surface. If, like this one, they restrict who can view the rooms, and visit you there, ask why? What are they trying to hide?
In the case of this particular place, the room I occupy is 150 square feet, and I am only one person here. Most of these rooms have double occupancy and no privacy at all. No curtain to maintain at least a visible privacy and if you can imagine this small amount of footage with two beds, two 3-drawer dressers, one chair (goes to the first one in the room), one narrow medicine cabinet that must be shared with the other person sharing the room, about six feet of closet space with one shelf spanning the area, also shared with the second person in the room, one sink, with under sink cabinet, shared*******I’m feeling claustrophobic just thinking about that.
Kentucky State law (KRS 194A.707 [11]) requires each room be at least 200 square feet with a private bathroom and shower —- UNLESS the facility was built or under construction BEFORE July 14, 2000. This facility was constructed in 1969. Check out all laws pertaining to your state BEFORE you commit.
There will be follow-ups to this post, but for now, please, please check all laws, certificates of compliance, house rules, staff availability and requirements before you commit! It’s only the comfort of yourself or someone you love at stake!