Perhaps the increasing interest and discussion on assisted living and elderly living options has been the logical progression of the fact that we now live longer, healthier lives. But there is still a lot of uncertainty about what it all involves and what you should be looking for if your elderly loved ones need an assisted living solution.
Access
One of the main aspects required by those who have opted for an assisted living solution for their loved ones is the ability to visit them whenever they want to. It is understandable that assisted living establishments/homes and retirement communities need security and may need to schedule visits to residents. You will need to know what these restrictions are so that you can make an informed decision about where your elderly relative will stay.
Access is, however, twofold, and you must ensure that there is easy and simple access for the elderly resident. This is often overlooked; whether it is access to the bathroom or other on-site facilities, the older person needs to be able to access all the facilities as easily as possible.
Transparency
There must be a heightened level of transparency as to what the older person requires before they move into assisted living. There also has to be transparency from both the resident and the home as to their ongoing health and wellness once they move to assisted living.
Financial transparency is also a requirement that you will need to determine and assess. The care or retirement home’s pricing and costs should be clear and easily explained, and understood. Any spend on extra activities and outings should be discussed and made clear beforehand.
Professionalism
Perhaps the most important aspect of assisted living is the medical and care assistance, and as such, it needs to be professional. Whether it is the medical assistance and support or the social and interactive assistance provided, it must be efficient, and those providing it must be well-trained and certified in their respective areas of specialization. There are some great options where this professionalism is highlighted, and the care provided is regarded as the rationale for the care; click here to learn more.
Day tours and sleepovers
It sounds a little juvenile, but the idea of being able to visit and then spend some time at the nursing home or assisted living facility is a must. Therefore, it must be on your list of things to ask for before considering the facility as an option. It’s the best way to get your elderly loved one and the entire family used to the move and to understand the benefits of assisted living.
A day tour and visit is the best way to assess the friendliness and the feel of the home or community, which will be critical for an elderly relative to live happily.
Assisted living decisions can be tricky as we all want the best for our elderly loved ones. However, there are so many considerations and factors that you must be aware of. The advice herein will allow you to take your time and hopefully make the right choice.