When you feel like it’s time to move a loved one to a place where their needs are met, the task of searching for an assisted living community can be rather overwhelming. Nowadays, finding a place can be fairly easy as there are many excellent communities available. For example, if you live in Texas, you might be looking for senior living Arlington, TX seniors depend on. However, before you make any step, it’s important to know certain things about assisted living so that you know what to expect and what to be prepared for.
What You Need To Know About Assisted Living
Generally speaking, assisted living is a residential care facility which provides care services to seniors. Assisted living communities differ from nursing homes nowadays as they focus on long-term care. Often, they provide apartment-style homes complete with various utilities. The things to expect depending on the type of community. Some offer basic care while others are properly equipped to provide care to patients suffering from dementia.
How Far Away It Is From Your House
It might not seem like a big deal, but it’s important to figure out the distance between where you live and the assisted living facility. This way, you’ll know that you can drop by quite often without having to drive a long distance. This is especially important if you have a busy schedule, due to the fact that knowing how long it takes makes it easier for you to fit it into your schedule. In addition, you’ll want to know what the visiting hours are. By having an idea of how far away the facility is, you will be able to drop by more often, especially at first, because you want to make the transition for your loved one a smooth one.
The Size of The Facility
It’s important for your loved one to be comfortable. You can consult them and figure out if they would be more comfortable in a big community with lots of people or in a more quiet atmosphere. You can also look back at the way they have lived so far–if they preferred being part of large communities or they lived in small rural settings.
A residential assisted living home has a tight, family-like environment, with residents getting home cooked meals. The number of people to socialize with is smaller, which can be a pro or a con, it all depends on preference. In this setting, they might feel more like they are in a home rather than in a large facility. On the other hand, large assisted living communities tend to have restaurant-style dining, and also more facilities. The community is bigger here, and residents can check out therapy gyms, libraries, swimming pools, or whatever other amenities a place has.
The Level of Care And The Cost
It’s important to understand the level of care that the facility offers. Then you will have to figure out if it’s the right one in order to meet the needs of your loved ones. Some communities don’t have round-the-clock staffing, which means that they won’t be getting any assistance at night. Ask the facility what is included in the monthly fee, and understand which services require additional charge. Some facilities require an initial deposit or a community fee, which is an industry standard, with the sum depending on the type of community. One thing worth noting is the fact that fees are not fixed; they can increase over time, especially if your loved one will end up requiring more and more attention. Make sure to ask plenty of question in order to understand what you are paying for and if the community is right for your loved one.
Things You Should Know Before Making A Decision
- Does the place have a 24/7 staff? You don’t know when an accident might take place, or perhaps your loved one requires constant attention.
- If the facility has a visiting doctor, find out how you can contact them. This way you’ll be able to answer various questions about the level of care that your loved one needs.
- Know what you’re paying for. Given that this is a long-term commitment, understand what your financial obligation is and what is included in the fees you are paying.
There are many good assisted living facilities out there. Do your research and find the best one for the senior in your life.