I'm going to look at an Assisted Living place on Friday. Any advice you can give me (what to look for or ask about)?

[Bluetus]

13. Not just the ratios, but the certification levels

Check with your state for the minimum requirements. You will probably find they are minimal, and far from adequate. The state minima are often set based on what can practically be provided under Medicaid billings, and that's not much.

You will probably find that AL facilities are allowed to operate with a single CNA (not even an RN) for a large number of rooms. A CNA needs a HS diploma plus a couple of months of CNA training. That's it. In comparison, an RN needs a 2-year or 4-year degree.

So definitely ask what level they staff to, and if they have any published corporate policy for staffing above the state minima.

And I would advise against a CCRC or life plan arrangement that requires an initial buy-in. Even if the buy-in is fully or partially refundable, these places change ownership so often, you could find yourself having a big legal battle to get your money back at the end. Even if there are apparent savings, I'd say stay away from that. Nowadays, most places no longer require that kind of arrangement. And also bear in mind that just because a place claims to have a range of levels (independent, assisted, memory care, and skilled nursing), that doesn't mean they are all of the same quality. A place that provides a decent IL situation may be no good at all for memory care or skilled nursing, depending on what the resident's needs become. That's another reason not to lock into a life contract.