Security Features to Look For When Choosing a Senior Living Facility

If you're considering moving into a senior living facility, you're looking for a more structured and protected environment where you can continue to live the way you want. Security is an important part of that.

The residents of a senior living facility can be more vulnerable in several ways, and the number of people at most senior living facilities can present challenges. A robust set of security features and protocols ensures that the facility you choose will keep you and your fellow residents safe and secure over the years.

Key Security Features to Look For

The following are some of the most crucial security features for a senior living facility. Keep in mind that this is a general list intended for the average resident, so if there's something about your personal circumstances that might require special care, you might have other features to add to the list.

A Perimeter Access Control System

You don't want unknown and unauthorized people entering the facility, which is why a perimeter access control system is a must. These systems usually take the form of key cards or biometric access to various parts of the facility.

This protects not only the well-being and property of the residents but also their privacy. Even if a visitor is authorized to be at the facility, a good access control system will keep them out of areas they shouldn't be in.

A Remote Surveillance System

Staff and supervisors can't be everywhere all the time. This is why a video camera system is of vital importance. Video surveillance allows for remote monitoring, and can allow staff to quickly intervene to assist or protect the residents.

However, there's a trade-off between security and privacy. A senior living facility should at least have video surveillance in public areas. Whether you'd want a facility where rooms are monitored is a personal choice. Room monitoring allows for staff to quickly help a resident in distress, but may be too intrusive for some residents.

An Emergency Response System

In the event that a resident experiencing a medical event needing immediate response, it's crucial that there be a way for that resident or others nearby to quickly alert staff. Frequently, this will be a button or object that each person wears or carries, a device or pendant.

Technological advances have led to automated emergency response systems as well. For example, some senior living facilities have automated fall detection software that can alert staff to a resident who has fallen and may be unable to communicate at the time.

Strong Emergency Preparedness and Response Protocol

Senior residents often time have mobility issues, which means that emergencies that require evacuation are extra challenging. In addition, some residents may have cognitive issues that can further complicate those situations. It's important that a facility have strong plans in place for these circumstances.

A senior living facility should have a robust plan in place for dealing with any emergencies that require evacuation or quarantine. Residents should have gone through drills to help them understand in advance how to act, and the facility should have extensive lists highlighting all residents who may need extra assistance for any reason.

Proper Background Checks and Training For Staff

This can sometimes be overlooked compared with more visible forms of security like video cameras or door access controls. But making sure that the staff of a senior living facility is vetted and trained is absolutely vital.

The majority of senior living facility staff are attentive, conscientious workers. But some bad apples do exist. Senior residents are a vulnerable population in many ways, and an unscrupulous staff member can steal from or abuse residents if not weeded out.

Training is also important, as even well-meaning staff can fail to properly help and support residents if not given proper training. A number of certifications and accreditations exist that demonstrate a facility and staff are properly trained.

Other Important Features to Look for in a Senior Living Facility

Security is of utmost importance when choosing a facility. But there are other considerations that may weigh just as heavily in your decision-making. Some other key factors might include:

Independence Levels

Facilities run the spectrum from those that allow a great deal of freedom to residents to those that emphasize protection and supervision. Knowing the type of experience you're looking for will lead to a happier time there.

Programs and Activities

Some facilities have a wide range of activities and programs for their residents, creating opportunities for friendships with other residents to form and for residents to find constructive and pleasant ways to fill their days. If that type of engagement is important to you, make sure to pick out a facility that emphasizes this aspect.

Expert Medical Care

If you have a particular medical condition that might necessitate special care, be sure to look into the medical care these facilities offer. Some facilities have specialized equipment and licensed staff on hand to treat certain conditions, which might be critical for you.

Amenities and Quality of Facilities

Some facilities can be luxurious and heavy on amenities, including technology, leisure activities and fitness options. Others are more reserved and offer less in the way of bonus features. Depending on how important such things are to you, this could be a key factor in your decision. Frequently, amenities and high quality go hand in hand with price, which is the next consideration.

Pricing

The reality is that everyone has a budget, and senior living facilities span a wide range of prices. You'll need to weigh your financial means and calculate how long you'd be able to afford to stay in a given facility with your current assets. Most senior residents aren't going to be able to increase their earning power or assets in a significant way, so determining whether a facility fits your budget is crucial.

Choosing a senior living facility is a life-changing decision, and it's important to know what to look for before investigating your options. Security is one of the foremost elements of a good facility, and understanding how to evaluate a facility's security level and features will put you in a position to make the best choice possible when choosing your next home.