FAQs

Depending upon the source consulted, one can find many “indicators” to help gauge when living alone is unsafe. Most of these indicators focus around two types of disability—physical and mental-- that may necessitate the advanced level of care that an assisted living facility can provide. Physical disabilities that prevent elders from being able to bathe or dress themselves, perform household chores, or even safely move from one place to another within their home could indicate a need for additional care. Even in the absence of physical limitations, mental disabilities such as dementia or short-term memory problems that prevent elders from being able to take medications or prepare meals safely may also indicate that additional care is needed.

Assisted living is not covered by Medicare or by health insurance. However, it is covered by most long-term care insurance policies. There are some assisted living facilities that are certified to accept Medicaid, but Lakeview Place is not currently covered by Medicaid.

Yes. Residents of all assisted living facilities, including Lakeview Place, have freedom to move about in the community. Residents are still allowed to drive if they wish, and residents may stay away from the facility overnight. (Note: Some long-term care insurance policies will not reimburse for leaves of absence away from the facility.)

Yes. Each bedroom is wired for telephone service, which can be ordered at the resident’s expense.

Three home-cooked meals are served daily, including a full breakfast each day and a large variety of meats and vegetables. Menus are planned in advance and may be viewed upon request. Currently, the same “regular diet” is served to all residents, though reasonable special requests can be accommodated. Residents requiring special diets will need a physician’s order and a dietician’s consult (at the resident’s expense).

If a resident has a medical emergency, it is addressed much like it would be if the resident were at home. During regular business hours, the nurse on duty is able to contact the resident’s physician by phone for consultation and/or new orders. Any needed lab work can be done in the facility by Magee General Hospital lab. Physicians do not visit the facility, but there is a nurse practitioner available for consultation on a non-emergency basis. After hours, the direct care staff is on-duty 24 hours per day, and they notify the on-call staff (RN) if a resident has a fall or becomes otherwise ill or injured. The on-call staff then makes the decision to notify family, activate emergency medical services (911), or take other appropriate action. Just as in the home, there is no physician “on-call.” Therefore, any needed medical attention after hours must be sought in an emergency setting.

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