Families don’t want to move their loved ones into a senior living facility until necessary. It’s hard to admit they are getting older and may need extra help. Emotions play a role in this, and arguments might arise when family members don’t agree on what steps to take. These decisions can be overwhelming. How can this process be simplified for all?
Start Early
Families should not wait until their loved one needs additional help before searching for a senior care community. Make appointments to visit Avista Senior Living locations and other communities. When visiting these communities, make a list of questions to ask. Starting early allows a family to visit different communities to see which feel welcoming and a good fit initially. They can learn more about each community and create this list of questions to ask during a future visit.
Consider the Options
The National Institute on Aging (NIA) reports there are four basic types of senior living communities. Most people are familiar with nursing homes. Today, seniors might also live in board and care homes, assisted living communities, or continuing care retirement communities. The level of care provided is determined by the community chosen.
Seniors need to have input into where they will live. They must consider the community size and amenities offered, their dietary and social preferences, and cultural considerations. When the community aligns with their values and wishes, the seniors will find the community welcoming, so the transition won’t be as stressful.
Level of Care
Seniors often need help, and the right community will ensure they get it. Assisted living communities provide assistance with activities of daily living, nursing homes provide additional medical care, and memory care communities are designed for those with dementia and other cognitive issues and provide ongoing monitoring and support.
Financial Considerations
Families must determine how they will pay for the senior’s living arrangements. The cost is determined by the type of community selected, the services required, and the community itself. Geographical location also plays a role in the price. Medicare doesn’t pay for most senior long-term care services, so families need to research payment options, including veterans and government benefits.
Set Up Tours
Return to those communities visited initially and learn more about them. Depending on the time that has passed, the family may wish to revisit those communities they took off the list. Things may have improved if a few years have passed since the initial visit. Eliminate those communities that don’t align with the senior’s preferences, needs, and budget. Spend time talking with staff members to see how they treat one another and the residents. Ask about staff turnover rates because seniors need continuity of care.
During these visits, pay attention to safety measures that have been put into place. Gather more information about costs and fees so there are no surprises when the senior moves in. The family doesn’t want to move the senior in, only to be hit with these fees and find that they cannot afford it. The senior would need to move again, which is stressful. This situation needs to be avoided for their health and well-being.
Families should consider other things when choosing a senior living community. They need to know about activities and specialized therapies residents will have access to and transportation options for medical visits and other outings. Furthermore, emergency protocols must be discussed, as everyone has seen how the global pandemic seniors. The more families know, the easier it will be to choose senior living for their loved ones.