Mom is 86 and has been in Assisted Living for 5 months. They manage her medications, bathe and dress her, and transport her to meals in her wheelchair. I selected a facility that has top of the line aesthetics, a great apartment layout, beautiful grounds, and a good ratio of male and female residents. The field trips are good, I have accompanied her on several. The Activities Director, AL Director, General Manager have all worked with her to encourage her to avail herself of the amenities and activities. Mom says she is not interested in anything they have there and just wants to lie on her couch and watch TV. As we blow through the money each month, I wonder if I should move her to a place that costs 2000 a month less but looks somewhat worn and dreary since she just wants to stay in her room all the time. I have researched several places and interviewed residents so I have a pretty good feel for the level and quality of care she would receive at other places and am sure they are adequate for her needs.
Its a hard decision, but you know your mom the best. You know if she will notice less "attractive" surroundings, etc. If the care is exactly the same, the staff proportion of staff to resident is the same and the food is edible, it might be worth considering. A big thing is the food because if they won't eat (Mom wouldn't) then they will get weak and fall.