Collin County has many senior living options, from large resort-style communities to small residential care homes tucked into quiet neighborhoods. With so many choices, it can be hard to know where to start. This checklist will help you compare homes and choose with confidence.
Start with your loved one’s needs
Before you tour, write down what help your loved one needs today — bathing, medications, mobility, memory support — and what may change in the next year or two. Note their personality, too. Someone who loves a busy social calendar may enjoy a large community, while someone who is shy, hard of hearing or living with dementia often feels more at ease in a small home.
Large community or small residential home?
Large communities typically offer more amenities, scheduled activities and private apartments. Small residential homes offer a home-like setting, fewer residents and more personal attention from the same familiar caregivers. Neither is right for everyone — the best choice depends on your loved one.
What to look for on a tour
- Is the home clean, bright and free of strong odors?
- Do residents look well cared for, dressed and engaged?
- Are caregivers warm and patient, and do they know residents by name?
- Is the home safe — grab bars, clear walkways, good lighting?
- Does the food look and smell appetizing?
- Do you feel welcome, and are your questions answered directly?
Questions to ask
- How many caregivers are on duty during the day and at night?
- How are medications handled and documented?
- What happens if my loved one falls or gets sick?
- Can my loved one stay if their needs increase, including hospice?
- How and how often will you update our family?
- What exactly is included in the monthly price, and what costs extra?
- Ask the home to show you its current state license and, for dementia care, any required certification.
Check the license
In Texas, assisted living facilities are licensed by the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC). You can ask any home for its license information and look up inspection history through HHSC’s long-term care provider search.
Trust your instincts
After a few tours, you’ll likely have a feeling about where your loved one would be most comfortable. Visit more than once if you can, at different times of day. If you’re touring homes near Anna, Melissa or McKinney, we’d love for Collin County Assisted Living to be one of your stops — schedule a tour or call (972) 693-1646.
Have questions about care for your loved one?
We’re happy to talk — no pressure. Call us or schedule a visit to our home in Anna.