Can You Come and Go in Assisted Living?
Yes, assisted living residents are generally free to come and go as they please, as long as it is safe and consistent with their care plan. Assisted living isn’t a locked environment like a hospital; it’s a home designed to encourage independence while ensuring help is nearby when needed.
At Keepsake Kottage Home Plus in Wichita, we respect residents’ freedom while maintaining a strong focus on safety and well-being.
Independence and Resident Rights
Assisted living is designed to give residents as much independence as possible. Seniors can attend family gatherings, shop, worship, and enjoy community events at their own pace, provided their health and safety allow it.
Staff work with residents and families to document plans for outings, ensuring everyone knows when the resident will return and how to reach them if needed.
Common Outings and Activities
Residents often leave assisted living for…
- Family celebrations and holidays
- Doctor or dental appointments
- Church services and community programs
- Shopping trips or scenic drives
- Recreational and social events
Many Wichita communities, including Keepsake Kottage, also organize group outings with staff supervision and transportation.
Safety Policies and Procedures
While freedom is encouraged, assisted living communities have systems to keep residents safe. These include…
- Sign-out and sign-in procedures for tracking outings
- Medication reminders for residents who leave for extended periods
- Emergency contact information and check-in calls when necessary
- Mobility and weather assessments before long trips
How Memory Care Differs
Residents in memory care or secured units may have limited ability to leave unsupervised due to wandering risks or cognitive concerns. These settings use extra safety features such as secure exits and staff escorts for outings, balancing safety with dignity.
The Role of Family
Family members play a key role in helping seniors enjoy outings safely. Families should…
- Notify staff in advance when planning an outing
- Carry medication schedules and emergency contact details
- Provide transportation or confirm arrangements
Keepsake Kottage’s Approach
Keepsake Kottage Home Plus combines comfort and freedom in a small, family-oriented setting. Residents enjoy flexibility to come and go, while our team ensures safety through communication, care coordination, and trusted routines.
Visit us: 8428 W 13th St N, Ste 130, Wichita, KS | (316) 650-4526
FAQs: Coming and Going in Assisted Living
Can residents leave whenever they want?
Yes, as long as it’s safe and aligns with their care plan. Staff may ask for sign-out details for safety purposes.
Can families take residents out for the day?
Absolutely. Families are encouraged to plan outings, attend events, and enjoy time together.
Are there restrictions on leaving?
Restrictions are rare and usually only apply in secured memory care settings or during health emergencies.
Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only and not medical, legal, or financial advice. Policies differ by provider and state. Always confirm with your assisted living community for specific guidelines.
