Making the decision to move your loved one to an assisted living home is never easy. There is an increasing need for long term care with many of the “boomer generation” aging into their 70’s, 80’s and 90’s. Even though most people want to age in their comfortable surroundings, it isn’t always possible or safe. When it becomes too difficult or unsafe for your loved one to continue to live at home then fortunately there are many amazing assisted living homes that your loved one will thrive in. You will want to choose the best fit in hopes of a smooth transition. It is important to involve your loved one and get their input on where they would feel the most at home. Here are some important questions you will want to ask and consider when interviewing homes for your loved ones placement.
- How much care will your loved one need?
They will do a full medical evaluation, so that you know what kind of care will be needed from the assisted living facility. Facilities vary greatly, and it is important to know how much help each one offers. Will your loved one need help with their daily activities such as bathing, dressing, taking medications? Not all facilities have licensed nurse on staff. This could mean that they would not be able to help in instances like a fall, which could result in a trip to the emergency room. Also, not all facilities will be able to handle residents who have dementia, or alzheimer’s and need memory care. Will they need transportation to and from doctor’s appointments? Some facilities will have transportation services, but some do not, so it would then be the family’s responsibility.
- What is the level of care?
You will want to choose a facility that is licensed to provide assisted living. Ask to see an inspection record, read reviews from residents and families. What is the ratio of residents to staff at all hours of the day? The main complaint reported on assisted living facilities is understaffing. Residents having to wait an excessive amount of time for help can cause stress and injuries. When visiting the facilities, stick around and visit with the residents who might be hanging out in the lounge areas. Ask them how they feel about the care they receive. Make sure the facility’s meal choices will be able to meet their expectations. Do they prepare meals that will adhere to their dietary needs? Something to consider, does your loved one have a special medical condition that might require extra attention? For example, a drain or catheter that will need to be tended to on a daily basis. It will be important to make sure that the facility is capable of handling any additional concerns. If your loved one needs extra care following surgery or illness, will the facility help with the recovery process?
- What is included in the cost?
Assisted living facilities are expensive. Many people have to pay out of pocket for their care. So, be sure to read all of the fine print when choosing a facility. Often there will be a package of services that will be included in the monthly bill, but there will be services that are considered extra, so make sure you don’t leave room for surprises.
There are so many things involved when deciding the perfect place for your loved one to continue aging gracefully. We understand this process isn’t easy, especially considering all of the factors that go into making a decision. Often times, your loved one has become a “fall risk” and you can’t always be present to help them. We have a wonderful and invaluable tool that will help them stay in their home longer, or if you own an assisted living home would be very beneficial to your residents. Our Raizer Lift Chair is a lifting device that can help your loved one that has fallen to be raised to an almost standing position with a simple touch of a button.
You can get more information on this innovative chair at our website www.rescuelift.com. We would love to help you!
