CALA Study Guide 2026
Everything you need to pass the CALA exam in one place: the exam format, every topic to study, real practice questions with explanations, flashcards, and full-length practice tests. Free, no sign-up needed.
📋 CALA Exam Format at a Glance
📚 CALA Topics to Study (38)
✍️ Sample CALA Questions & Answers
1. What is a 'preadmission screening' in the context of assisted living admissions?
Preadmission screening evaluates a prospective resident's physical, cognitive, and functional status to ensure the facility can safely and appropriately meet their care needs before admission.
2. An administrator who notices a pattern of medication errors but takes no corrective action to avoid operational disruption is demonstrating:
Inaction in the face of a known patient safety risk constitutes ethical negligence and potential legal liability for the administrator.
3. Which of the following contributes to resident quality of life in assisted living?
Activities and social engagement promote mental and emotional well-being, enhancing residents’ overall quality of life.
4. What does 'aging in place' mean in the context of assisted living?
Aging in place means adapting services and supports so residents can remain in their chosen setting as needs change.
5. In assisted living financial management, what does 'census' refer to?
Census refers to the number of occupied resident beds or units at a given time, directly impacting revenue calculations.
6. A resident's family member complains that their loved one's room temperature is consistently too cold. What is the most appropriate initial step for the facility manager?
Investigating the physical system and checking care plan documentation addresses both the mechanical issue and the resident's individualized comfort needs simultaneously.