How to Choose the Right Assisted Living Facility for Your Needs

Finding the right assisted living facility is an important decision, for yourself or someone you care about. It’s not just about care; it’s about finding the right fit. A place that feels safe, welcoming, and comfortable. A place where the support is there when needed but independence is still respected. At Shelton Manor in Pensacola, we understand how personal this choice is. We’re here to help guide you through the process with some practical tips to help you find a facility that meets your needs today, and into the future.

Start With Location

Where a community is located matters. Many families want to be close to their loved ones, while others look for something that feels familiar—whether that’s a neighborhood, city, or region they know and love.

Shelton Manor is located in Pensacola, FL, a place known for its welcoming feel and strong community ties. Whether it’s staying near long-time friends, being close to family, or simply enjoying the climate, location can go a long way in making a place feel like home.

Tour the Community—And Get a Feel for It

Every assisted living facility is different, and so is every resident. It’s important to take a tour and ask yourself: Does it feel like a place you’d be comfortable in?

At Shelton Manor, we encourage families to visit during mealtimes or group activities. This gives you a real sense of what day-to-day life looks like here. Our community is small by design, with a family-oriented atmosphere. Residents and staff know each other by name. That kind of connection matters.

Know What’s Included in the Cost

Understanding how pricing works can help you make a confident decision. Some facilities charge extra for every service, which can add up quickly, especially if care needs change.

Shelton Manor offers flat-rate pricing based on room type, not care level. Whether you choose a private or semi-private room, your rate stays the same even if your needs change. There are no additional fees for medication assistance, meals, or daily help with activities like bathing or dressing.

Included in our monthly rate:

Three home-style meals per day
Snacks available throughout the day
Assistance with medications and ADLs (activities of daily living)
Weekly housekeeping and laundry
24-hour trained staff on-site
WiFi, cable, and community phone
Activities, games, and social events

This approach offers peace of mind—not just for residents, but for families who want to know exactly what to expect.

Look Into the Level of Support Available

Some communities offer limited support or charge more as care needs increase. That might work in the short term, but it can make things difficult if additional help is needed later on. At Shelton Manor, we care for residents of all ages and adjust our support to meet each person’s individual needs. Whether someone needs minimal help or daily assistance, our team is trained to provide care with dignity and respect. And because we charge a flat rate, there’s no need to worry about costs increasing with care.

Make Sure the Community Feels Active and Social

Living in an assisted living facility should still feel like living—not waiting. A good community provides opportunities to stay engaged, build friendships, and enjoy daily life. At Shelton Manor, we offer activities every day. Some residents enjoy morning exercise or afternoon bingo, while others prefer puzzles, music, or simply sitting outside on a nice day. There’s no pressure to join in—but the opportunity is always there. Our goal is to make each day feel meaningful, no matter what that looks like for each person.

Ask About Meals, Rooms, and Extras

Meals, room setup, and little details all play a role in comfort. During your tour, ask to see the dining space, sample the menu, and view different room options.Shelton Manor offers both private and semi-private rooms, depending on preference and budget. Each room is set up to feel cozy and home-like, with space for personal touches. Meals are prepared fresh each day with a focus on nutrition and familiarity—think hearty breakfasts, balanced lunches, and warm dinners served with care. Snacks are available throughout the day as well.

Talk With Staff and Residents

The people make the place. One of the best ways to understand a facility is to observe how the staff interacts with residents—and how residents feel about where they live. At Shelton Manor, our staff builds strong, caring relationships with residents. Many families tell us that what sets us apart is the genuine connection and respect shown by our team.

If you’re touring communities, don’t be afraid to ask:

A community with a dedicated, consistent team often provides the highest quality care.

Plan for Now—and the Future

It’s important to choose a community that can meet your needs now, while also being flexible for the future. Shelton Manor is designed to support residents as their needs change. Whether that means more help with medications or additional assistance with daily routines, we’re here to provide that care—without requiring a move or sudden cost increases. Planning ahead helps ensure that future changes are handled with ease and comfort.

Visit Shelton Manor and See the Difference

We know that choosing an assisted living facility is a big step. That’s why we invite families to visit us, ask questions, and get to know our team. Come tour Shelton Manor in Pensacola. See what makes us different, and how we can support your loved one in living a safe, full, and comfortable life. Call today to schedule your personal tour.