When an older loved one is starting to require more help with daily activities, it is time to start considering assisted living facilities.
Assisted living provides them with some help, like with dressing, bathing, or preparing meals, but still provides an independent lifestyle. Often, this help is too much for family caregivers to handle, which is why professional help can provide a better quality of life.
Choosing an assisted living facility for your loved one can be a challenge. It often brings about strong emotions, and the many small factors can be overwhelming. Read more for a guide on choosing an assisted living facility that is right for your family.
When to Move to an Assisted Living Facility
Much of the time, families decide to move a loved one to assisted living following a crisis. This can lead to a high-stress move. Instead, keep an eye out for these signs that may indicate it is time to start looking for assisted living facilities near you.
- Struggling with tasks of daily living
- Lack of socialization
- Healthcare coordination has become overwhelming
- Chores have become stressful or unmanageable
- Nutritious meals are difficult to prepare
- You are no longer able to provide adequate care
- Friends and family notice changes in your loved one
- Their doctor recommends assisted living
- Your mental health is suffering
If many of the above are true, it is time to consider moving your loved one to an assisted living facility.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Assisted Living
Choosing an assisted living home for your loved one comes with a lot of decision making. With so many factors contributing to your choice, it can be difficult to decide on the best place to call home. Below are a few of the most important criteria to consider for your loved one’s transition to assisted living.
Services Provided
Different assisted living facilities offer different services. Before you choose, take a close look at the services provided at each of your options.
Some of the most common services provided in assisted living include…
- Pharmacy access
- Nutrition and dietary guidance
- Physical, occupational, and speech therapy
- Hospice care
- Skilled nursing care
- Mental health counseling services
- Social work services
Memory care may also be available in some assisted living communities. Memory care includes specialized services that provide safety and improved quality of life from residents who are experiencing memory loss.
Staff
When touring facilities, be sure to ask specific questions about the staff. What is their training like? How do they make residents feel welcome? If possible, you may even want to ask a current resident how they feel about their staff.
Financial Cost
Sticker shock is common when browsing assisted living facilities. While costs may seem initially high, it can be helpful to compare assisted living costs to the cost of at-home help and assistance with care tasks as your loved one ages.
Facilities may charge per item or as an all-inclusive package. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and learn what is included with the cost of residency.
Comfort and Amenities
This will be your loved one’s home moving forward. When you tour the facility, take note of any amenities and features that might make them more comfortable. This includes general cleanliness, including common areas like bathrooms and dining halls.
In addition, look for safety features, like well-market exits, well-lit stairs and hallways, handrails, and security alarms.
Finally, look for extra touches that make the facility feel like home. There could be a piano in the lobby, a hairdresser on-site, or cozy reading nooks or dens where residents can socialize.
Benefits of Assisted Living
Assisted living comes with a number of benefits:
- Individualized care
- Increased socialization
- Preserved independence
- Medication management
- Reduced family caregiver stress
- Reduced stress from daily chores
Click here to learn more about the benefits of assisted living at Copeland Oaks.
Building an Individualized Plan with Copeland Oaks
Copeland Oaks takes a person-centered, individualized approach to assisted living. Every person is different. Work with us to create a plan that works for your loved one’s needs and preferences.
With a beautiful campus filled with ample amenities, a skilled staff, and a variety of rooms and floor plans to choose from, your loved one can feel right at home at Copeland Oaks.