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How to ...
Choose a Senior Living Community
How to Choose a Senior Living Community
Choosing a senior living community can be an emotional process , but it doesn ’ t have to be overwhelming . Be sure to know what to look for when touring a housing community and ask important questions . We ’ ve compiled helpful information and a comprehensive list of questions that will give you confidence that you ’ re making the right decisions .
What is the right level of care ?
Independent living can be an ideal choice when you ’ re in good health , able to care for yourself and want to live a more fulfilling , worry-free lifestyle that gives you a long-term plan . If you are feeling isolated or lonely in your home , you may thrive in an environment that is rich with neighbors , activities , events and other social opportunities .
Assisted living suits seniors who have had a slight decline in health and need assistance performing one or more daily living activities , such as bathing , grooming or dressing . If you or a loved one would like to live in a social environment with few responsibilities , where care is easily accessible whenever it may be needed , assisted living may be ideal . Typically , assisted living communities offer prepared meals three times a day and help with light housekeeping and laundry .
When a loved one can no longer effectively manage the tasks of day-to-day living , skilled nursing care suites are often the best choice . Many choose skilled nursing care suites after a prolonged illness or as the effects of aging increase dependency . A stroke , heart attack or accident can immediately change life circumstances , and care suites may offer the best way to ensure proper care .
The onset of memory loss is often gradual and inconsistent , but when your loved one experiences memory loss that disrupts daily life , has difficulty with words and / or withdraws from social activities , residential memory care can be the right choice . The structure , security , and person-centered care of a memory care program can decrease anxiety and add quality to the life of a dementia patient , and ease the concern and strain on family caregivers . Whenever memory loss is suspected , consult with your physician .
Focus on important lifestyle factors
• Is the care community close to familiar surroundings and friends and family ?
• Does the community provide engaging activities and social events ?
• If pets are an important part of your life , does the community allow them ?
• Do you seek a large setting with more neighbors , staff and amenities ? Or is a smaller , cozier environment more to your liking ?
How will the services be paid for and what is the cost ?
• How is the monthly rate determined ?
• Is the community nonprofit ? Fees paid to nonprofit senior care communities go directly toward care services and facility maintenance , instead of investors ’ pockets .
• Do you have the resources to pay ? If personal funds will eventually be depleted are there other sources to pay for the care available ?
Tour with all of your senses
• Are staff members engaged with residents ? Are the interactions kind and considerate ?
• Is the environment clean and inviting ?
• Are meals appealing ?
Is care personalized ?
• What accommodations are provided for individual preferences ( bathing , rising and bedtime , meal preferences , routines and personal pursuits )?
• Who provides the care ? What disciplines are involved and how is work assigned and coordinated ?
• What type of training do staff members have ? How long have they been with the organization ?
• How is the care plan communicated , changes made and monitored ?
• How can someone summon assistance and what is the anticipated response time ?
• How is spiritual care provided ? Think about your personal preferences or needs and ask how they can be accommodated .
Extent of care and contract
• Is there a limit to the care available at the location ? What are the limits and what happens if a move is needed ?
• What is the duration of the rental or admission agreement ?
Personal support system
• Are there services that the family must provide or be a part of ?
• Are shopping opportunities on location or trips available ?
• Do physicians and other health professionals visit the location or must one leave the premises to receive services ?
Individual preferences and perceptions can vary widely , so be sure to carefully consider how a care community can best suit you or your loved one ’ s needs . More articles about senior living are available at benedictineliving . org / resources .
This information is provided by Benedictine , a faith-based nonprofit network of 30 + communities offering a full continuum of senior living options . Guided by a 40-year heritage and our core values of hospitality , stewardship , respect and justice , Benedictine strives to ensure our residents find connection , meaning and happiness .