FAQ's

What is the resident-staff ratio?

In North Carolina, assisted living facilities must staff based on current resident census and individual needs of residents. There is no single fixed ratio (like 1:4 or 1:8), but staffing must be adequate to meet care and supervision needs at all times and residents may never be left alone without a staff member present. Daily required aide duty hours are specified by law based on number of residents and shifts.

We post daily staffing information in a visible location for families so you can see how many aides and supervisors are on each shift.


What assistance is provided by your home?

We support residents with activities of daily living (ADLs):

  • Ambulation (walking)
  • Bathing and personal hygiene
  • Continence/Incontinence Care
  • Dressing and grooming
  • Eating assistance
  • Medication Reminders
  • Supervision and safety
  • Toileting and transfers
  • Transportation coordination

We also provide:
✔ 3 meals/day and snacks
✔ Housekeeping and laundry
✔ Social & recreational activities
✔ Care coordination & community resources

✔ Cable & WIFI

Personal care services may be delivered directly by our aides or arranged through licensed home care/hospice agencies.


Are nurses available 24/7?

Licensed nurses are not required by law to be physically on-site 24/7 in assisted living. However:
✔ We ensure nursing oversight through contract arrangements.
✔ A nurse (LPN/RN) is available for consultation during business hours by phone.
✔ We support care planning and medication oversight with nurses per regulations.

If a resident needs higher skilled nursing care, we assist families with referrals and care arrangements.


How is the building/home secured?

Your loved one’s safety is a priority:
Secure entry/exit with controlled access
Staff monitoring common areas
Emergency pull cords/call systems in bedrooms & bathrooms
Monitoring per fire safety standards
Fire detection & alarm systems throughout


What state license do you have?

Always Home is licensed by the North Carolina Division of Health Service Regulation (DHSR) as a multiunit assisted housing with services adult care home per NC General Statute 131D-2.1.

We renew our license annually and comply with all state regulations.


What is the visitation protocol?

Residents have the right to receive visitors of their choosing at all reasonable times, consistent with health and safety protocols (e.g., infection control). Facilities must allow visitation unless there is a valid public health restriction or a danger posed to residents and staff.

We request visitors sign in, follow hygiene guidelines, and respect resident privacy.


Who will be administering medications?

Medication support is provided by staff trained and competent in medication administration, per state rules. Medication administration training is required, and competency is verified by a licensed nurse.

We follow all safety protocols and coordinate with prescribing providers.


How are emergencies handled?

We have an emergency response plan including:
Quick staff response & first aid
Direct contact with local EMS
Emergency call systems in resident rooms
Notification to family/legal representative promptly

We practice drills and coordinate with local authorities.


How are changes in status handled?

If a resident experiences a change in health or behavior:
✔ We reassess their needs
✔ Inform family/contact person
✔ Adjust care plan with licensed nurse input
✔ Facilitate additional services (home health, therapy, hospice)
✔ If necessary, help explore higher level care options

State law requires reassessment and care planning when needs change.


What is daily life like?

Daily life at Always Home includes:
Family-style meals
Social & recreational activities
Fitness & wellness events
Outings to community events
Scheduled personal care and support
Relaxed and supportive environment

We strive for purposeful days that respect individual routines and preferences.


What is included in the pricing?

Typically included in the monthly rate:

  • Private or shared accommodations
  • Utilities
  • Three meals per day and snacks
  • Housekeeping and laundry
  • Personal care assistance as assessed
  • Activities and social programming
  • Safety supervision

Additional services may be available at an added cost.


If the resident isn’t able to make cognitive decisions but can handle their own ADLs, can they stay?

Yes. Residents who are unable to make certain cognitive decisions may remain at Always Home as long as they have a legal representative or responsible party to assist with decision-making and their care needs can be safely met within an assisted living setting.

Assisted living does support those with mild-moderate cognitive impairment with appropriate supervision.


How long can the resident stay in the facility?

Residents may remain at Always Home as long as their care needs can be safely met, they or their representative agree to continued residency, and facility policies are followed. If a higher level of care becomes necessary, the facility assists with care transitions and planning.