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Assisted Living
It Can Be the Best of Both Worlds
Assisted living offers a certain level of autonomy to aging seniors who are still somewhat independent but need help with some of their daily activities, such as bathing and/or meal preparation. Many of these communities have special care units for people with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of memory loss. If the time has come to consider an assisted living home for your loved one, you may be feeling a range of emotions, including guilt, sadness, and anxiety. But in many cases, elders find that they enjoy the social interactions and daily activities offered. They adapt to their new situation and often even thrive. The trick is finding an engaging, caring environment with meaningful activities. Granted, this can be a daunting job. Don’t worry. We’re here to help!
If your parents will be moving together, be sure to find a place that has married couple apartments or rooms available.
Find the Space That Suits Your Loved One
The types of living areas vary greatly in style and size, from swanky to simple and spacious to small. Some come with elaborate common areas and exercise facilities. Most living areas are rented. They can be:
- Full-size one bedroom apartments
- Studios with kitchenettes
- Studios with partial or no kitchens
- Single rooms
- Shared rooms
If your parents will be moving together, be sure to find a place that has married couple apartments or rooms available.
Levels of Care Determine Price
While the type of room is one of the determining factors of pricing, most assisted living facilities offer different pricing based on the level of care the resident requires. A higher level of care costs more. Here are some factors that may affect pricing:
- Bathing
- Dressing
- Personal grooming
- Level of mobility
- Medication management
- Continence
- Eating
- Level of Memory
Do Your Home Work
Diligence is key. Assisted living communities offer different levels of services. Be specific about what your loved one needs now – but also anticipate what services will be needed in the future. The last thing you want is another move six months down the road. Look at as many assisted living homes as you can – several times or more. Get a feel for the staff and the residents, and how they interact. Warmth, patience, tenderness and humor are all big pluses. Check out the nooks and crannies, not just the common areas, but the kitchens, bathrooms, and private rooms. Is it clean and homey? It should be. Location and parking availability should be a priority, too. You want to make it easy for family and friends to visit often. Ask other residents and their visiting children or spouses what their experience has been.
Before You Sign on the Dotted Line
When you find an assisted living home that has the right services, the right price, and the right feel to it, don’t sign a lease just yet. This is a legal document that can be quite confusing. It is important to know that regulations vary state by state and these regulations should be addressed in the contract. Read it carefully and contact an attorney if you have questions!
