Assisted living facilities vary by state. For example, the <a title=Assisted living Minnesota at Great Places! rel="nofollow" onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/article_exit_link');" href= >assisted living Minnesota</a> facilities will be much different than the assisted living Florida facilities. The National Center for Assisted Living helps families by publishing how states have changed their regulations. Whether you believe <a title=Senior apartments at Great Places! rel="nofollow" onclick="javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview('/outgoing/article_exit_link');" href= >senior apartments</a>, assisted living or a nursing home is right for your loved one, make sure you have all the facts before you proceed.

Of course the internet has a wide range of information to help you find an assisted living facility in your state or around the globe that might be the right fit for you or someone you know. You may also want to check the news to see if there is anything that catches your interest. Reviews might also be helpful if you can find a site that focuses on assisted living facilities.

This year, there were 18 states that made regulatory changes and in at least 6 of these states the changes were major ones. Further, there are many more states working toward major modifications in 2009. Over the years, states have worked toward developing standards that can help residents with higher healthcare needs. This is good news for many.

Due to budget changes and economic hardships there were many states that had to make changes. These changes may have been due to pressure on state Medicaid programs or debates over the rate people should pay or the policy regarding rent or how to handle people coming and going. Does your state or the facility you are considering have adequate funding? Make sure that if you are moving yourself or someone you know into a new facility they have the equipment, room and personnel to take care of your needs.

The ways that personnel in the assisted living facilities regulate food, medication, training, safety, hiring, disclosure, etc…are all very important to consider. Understand the preparedness the facility has in the event of a disaster and if they have developed good guidelines to follow. Consider the hiring procedure and if there has to be a certain level of education or training to be employed. Make sure they are a facility that requires a background check on all its employees.

You can find all of this information online. However, make sure it is coming from a credible source. Anyone can publish a Website so make sure it is a legitimate source. If you can, consider going to the facility and interviewing with employees and some residents ahead of time. Talk with someone that is going through the same thing you are so that you can see if it is the right place for you.

It is no secret that there are both good and bad assisted living facilities out there. With some proper research and through the resources at your fingertips you will be able to determine the best course of action for you or your loved one. The National Center for Assisted Living is a great resource. Take a look at how your state has changed over the years in regards to the care it is giving to its residents. Make sure the hands being trusted are hands that are going to provide the very best care possible.