As a senior ages, they may start to need more help around the house to stay safe and healthy. At this point, it may be necessary to consider an assisted living community, where they can still be as independent as possible but get the help they need when they need it. This can be a great option, but it is important to choose the right community for the senior.
See If It’s Time to Consider the Options
The very first step should be to see if you need assisted living for your loved one or if there might be another option that’s a good fit. Assisted living is perfect for seniors who need help with daily activities like bathing or getting dressed, those who are at risk of falling at home, or those who are suffering from isolation due to it being more difficult to get around. Finding the right support through assisted living can help them live a happier and healthier life.
Carefully Begin the Conversation
As soon as loved ones notice that a senior is starting to need a little extra help, it’s a good idea for them to start talking about the options with them. Seniors will want to be involved in the process and feel like they are able to make decisions on their own, as it is their future that’s being discussed. Plus, including them in the conversation can make it easier for them to move to a new home and help them be more excited about the new opportunities that will be available to them. Don’t forget to talk about the benefits, like easier socialization and fun activities, so they can be more comfortable with the idea of moving to a new home.
Know What a Community Should Have
Every community is different, so it’s important to compare them carefully to make sure they’ll have everything the senior needs. Look at the location, what living spaces are available, and the social activities for residents. Make sure there are plenty of activities for them to do to promote better physical and mental health. Don’t forget to ask about the staffing ratio as well as training to make sure they are trained in CPR and other emergency services if needed. Also, ask about emergency response, transportation to doctor’s offices or anywhere the senior needs to go, and more.
Ask About the Cost of Care
Assisted living options can be expensive, depending on the community and services available, so it is a good idea to look into the cost of care before making a decision. Take the time to look into anything that may be able to help cover some or all of the services, as this may make assisted living far more affordable. Don’t forget to ask what’s included with the base price and the cost of additional services that may be needed to get a better idea of the overall monthly cost.
If your loved one is starting to need more help around the house, moving into assisted living could be a great option for them. Use the tips here to start looking into the different options to find one that’s going to be a great fit and that’s going to have everything they need. By taking the time to evaluate the different options, it’s possible to find a place they’ll enjoy.
