Noticing your aging parent struggling with health challenges is a clear sign it’s time to start exploring trusted senior living options. However, doing so isn’t as straightforward as it may seem. If you’re unfamiliar with the senior living options available, your first step is learning what’s out there and exploring your choices.
At Senior Care Network, we understand that the key to ensuring your loved one receives the best support and care services for a fulfilling aging experience lies in selecting the right senior living option. You need to choose an option that suits your aging parent’s evolving healthcare needs and respects their dignity and independence. Thus, today we’re covering a simple guide on how you can find an ideal senior living community for your aging parent.
First, Understand Your Parent’s Needs
Choosing the right senior living option begins with first understanding what your parent truly needs. Every senior is unique, and it’s crucial to consider their health as well as their lifestyle preferences.
Understand Their Independence Level
Ask your parent about how much help they need each day. If they can live independently, independent living would be suitable for them. But if they need help with bathing, dressing, or medication, assisted living might be the better fit. For those with memory impairments and memory issues like dementia or Alzheimer’s, memory care would be best. Thus, understanding what level of independence they need is key to finding the right kind of community for them.
Know Their Preferences
Beyond health, think about factors that could make your parents feel at home. Is it the social space that they like by being near friends and family? Are social events and group meals their favorites? Do they prefer being at home in a private, quiet space? Take note of factors such as location, community size, amenities, and their food preferences. Caring for these personal factors would make a big difference in their overall happiness.
Research Options
Once you’ve got a clear idea of what your parents expect from their new place, you can start looking for what’s available.
Research Online
Most families search online for reliable senior living options. You have access to multiple senior living directories, allowing you to browse nearby communities. During your search, look at their featured photos, read about their services, and check their reviews as well. Pay attention to what people are saying about the cleanliness, staff friendliness, and overall satisfaction.
Word Of Mouth
Oftentimes, the best recommendations come from the people you know. You can ask your family, friends, or local contacts to see if they have information about a suitable senior living option. Personal stories can offer insights you might not find online.
Senior Living Advisors
Talking to a senior living advisor, like us at Senior Care Network, can provide you with valuable information that helps you find the right senior living option. They are well-versed in the nearby communities and can help you find the best option that fits your parent’s needs, budget, and preferences.
Tour Communities
Taking a community tour, either physically or virtually, helps you get a better feel for a community and understand what daily life would be like for your parents.
Schedule Visits
Contact the community and book a tour. Try visiting on days when the activities and community interactions are in full swing. Take your parents with you so they can experience the environment and provide their feedback.
Observe The Environment
Look for signs of cleanliness, comfort, and safety. See if the hallways are well-lit. Notice if there are accessible outdoor spaces. See if residents look well-cared for. Take note of details like ramps, handrails, and emergency systems, as they are crucial for your loved one’s safety and comfort.
Engage With Staff
During your tour, talk with the community’s staff. Observe how they address your concerns. Are they warm, knowledgeable, and respectful? Inquire about their experience and training. You need to ensure that the community you choose has a friendly staff, as the quality of the staff will directly impact your parent’s lives.
Interact With Residents
Pay attention to the residents’ mood. Do they look content and happy? If possible, chat with a few residents to help decide if it’s a good fit for your parents. Remember, a welcoming community is key to your parent’s emotional well-being.
Evaluate Finances And Contracts
It’s essential to thoroughly understand the costs and terms associated with a community option to avoid any potential issues that may arise later on.
Understand Costs
Ask for a detailed breakdown of the monthly fees and see what’s included in it. Check if meals, housekeeping, and transportation are included in the package or if you need to pay extra for these services. Also, check the entrance fees or deposit and see if the prices are likely to increase over time.
Compare Agreements
Read the agreements thoroughly and compare terms like cancellation policies and transitioning to a higher level of care.
Look For Resources
When deciding if a community is a good fit for your loved one, it’s essential to determine if they accept programs such as Veterans Affairs benefits or Medicaid.
Make An Informed Decision
After you’re done comparing options, it’s time to decide on what will be the perfect solution to your parent’s evolving needs.
Parent Involvement
Don’t miss out on involving your parents in the decision-making process. It helps when they feel heard. Take them on tours, and ask what they like most in a community.
Trust Your Instincts
Facts and reviews are crucial, but so is trusting your instincts. Go with an option that feels warm, friendly, and safe. Don’t ignore it if something feels off. Your chosen community should give peace of mind to both you and your parents who are going to move to that community.
Senior Care Network—The Senior Living Advisor You Can Trust
At Senior Care Network, we believe that every senior deserves a graceful aging experience. As their needs evolve, they often require professional care and support. Family members, unaware of the available resources, can find it challenging to choose a dependable care provider for their aging parent. This is where the Senior Care Network becomes your partner. Think of us as your constant advocate for your parent’s overall well-being. With us, navigating the complexities of the senior living industry becomes much easier. Contact us today and let us help your parents find their new home.
