Independent Living in Portland, Oregon

Physical Features and Accommodation

• Look at the design and safety. Is the place designed to meet your love one's need? Is the floor design, stairways, pathways and others are safe for the weak and elderly? Are the rooms, cupboards, shelves are accommodating for them? Is there any hand-rails to aid walking?
• Check Security system. Is it safe? Do they have ample security system like alarms, monitoring, smoke detectors, fire exits and others? Is there any elevator for those who need it?
• Notice the lighting. Is the community has enough lights for comfort, security and safety of the residents?

Services & Amenities

• Check on their personal care services. Can they provide the personal care services according to your love one's need? What are the services they offer?
• Ask about the availability of assistance and support of the staff. Is assistance available 24 hours or as much as it is needed? Is there any security personnel around?
• Inquire on housekeeping and transportation services. Do they have transportation for the resident's appointments outside the community? Do they provide housekeeping services?
• Check the food service. Is healthy and variety of food provided? Can you request special food and snacks? Is special diet taken care of? Is it possible to eat in the room instead of dining area?
• Ask about medical/therapeutic services and programs. Is there any regular medical check-up schedules? How about health and exercise programs and activities?

Room/Apartment Features

• Check on the space and comfort. Are the room/apartment spacious enough? Do they have own lockable doors and lockers? Are walkers or wheelchair accommodated in the apartment?
• Look at the emergency system. Is there any emergency system, telephone, internet access, etc.?
• Inquire about apartment furnishing. Do you have to bring your own furnishing or it is provided? Can the resident decorate it on their own taste?

Social & Recreational Activities

• Inquire about their program and activities. Is there any field trips, theaters, events  schedules?
• Ask about pets. Do resident allow having pets? Does the community have its own pet? Who are responsible for their care.

Checklist will basically increase your reliability and help your decision-making. You can make your own check-list according to your needs.