We all want our loved ones to be happy and healthy in their senior years. Some seniors need help with daily tasks as they age. When they can no longer complete these activities independently, they may benefit from moving to an assisted living community. Finding the right community for the individual takes time and effort, but it is ultimately worth it. When the right community is selected, the loved one will thrive. What steps should a family take when looking for this community?
Begin the Process Early
Families need to start the search for an assisted living community early. They should not wait until the loved one needs help but should begin this process months or even years before the senior must move. Doing so allows them to compare different facilities to find the perfect one for seniors. One family may be considering Belmont Village because it meets their loved one’s needs in every way. Another family might need a different community that is closer to them or has the amenities the senior requires. When the search is started early, families have time to gather this information and compare and contrast the options.
Care Options
Seniors have care options today. At one time, they would be relegated to a nursing home because there were no other options if they could not live with family members. Today, they may benefit from assisted living communities, board and care homes, continuing care retirement communities, or communities devoted to memory care. Each option provides a different level of care, and families need to consider this when choosing.
Many families opt for a continuing care retirement community today because their senior loved ones will not have to move as their care needs increase. They can relocate within the community and remain in familiar surroundings. When making this decision, request input from the senior. They will live in the community, so their preferences must be a part of this process.
Finances
Senior communities charge residents monthly fees. The family must determine whether they can afford this monthly fee or if the senior has the resources to help pay it. Long-term care insurance is one option to consider, and many people may find they qualify for VA benefits or other government programs. However, the bulk of the expense may fall on the family. One thing to remember when considering cost is all items are included in the rent. The senior will not have a separate bill for meals, utilities, housekeeping, and other expenses they may have been paying while living in their own home.
Safety
Families want their loved ones to be safe regardless of where they live. Senior living communities consider this and have measures in place to keep the residents safe. For example, the showers may have grab bars, hallways may be lighted, and doors may be locked to ensure unwanted intruders do not enter the community.
When comparing communities, families also need to look into their safety records. Each state regulates assisted living communities within its borders. The state health department, long-term care ombudsman, or Department of Social Services can help determine if complaints have been lodged against a community.
Tour several communities before choosing one for the senior. While at these communities, speak with staff members to learn about staffing ratios, turnover, and other issues that may impact the residents when it comes to the staffing of the community. In addition, talk to residents to learn more about the amenities and the activities for the seniors. Plan multiple visits to each community to get an authentic feel for how they operate. Doing so will ensure you find the right community for your loved one so they can thrive in their senior years.
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