Is it time to find the ideal senior living solution for a loved one? There are things you can do to narrow your options and make sure your loved one ends up in a community that’s a good fit.
When looking for the right senior living community, consider the following considerations. Then, write them down and refer to them frequently as you tour different communities and learn more about them.
What Services Do They Offer?
When you’re choosing a senior community for your loved one, take a close look at the services they offer. Better yet, come up with a list of your preferred services, then see which communities match up with your list. Here are some of the services to consider when looking for a senior living community.
- Nutritious meals
- Access to medical care
- Laundry and housekeeping services
- Transportation services
- Social opportunities and activities
- Security features and staffing around the clock
When asking about services, make sure you find out which are included in the standard monthly rate and which services are only available for an additional fee.
How Close Are They Located to You?
If you are currently your loved one’s primary caregiver and want to visit frequently, it’s best to look for a senior living community that is located close by. If it takes longer than 20 minutes for you to drive to your loved one’s new community, you may not be able to visit as often as you would like. Ideally, the community you look for should be within an hour from where you live.
Do They Fit in Your Budget?
Another critical factor to consider when choosing the right senior living community is whether it fits into your budget. To figure out how much you can afford to spend on senior living, determine your monthly income from all sources (including 401(k), family support, pensions, social security, etc. Next, identify your monthly expenses (minus the expenses your senior living community will handle).
If you’re struggling to figure out how much you can afford to spend on a senior living community, consult with an independent financial advisor. You may also wish to sit down and talk with a family member you trust. Once you figure out how much you can afford, you’ll have an easier time choosing the right senior living community.
What Recreational and Social Opportunities Do They Offer?
When you have plenty of recreational and social opportunities available to you, you’re more likely to maintain a high quality of life. So before choosing a senior living community, make sure they offer organized activities within the community and outside of it.
If your loved one has a pet, consider whether the senior living community you’re considering welcomes pets. If so, who is responsible for caring for the pet? Does the community encourage residents to interact with one another and engage in social activities together?
Select the Best Fit
These are just a few of the top checklist items to consider when looking for the right senior living solution for your loved one. Your main goal should be to find a community where your loved one will feel comfortable, welcome, and involved. Elder Care Alliance can help you make the perfect selection that will fit your loved one’s needs and lifestyle very well.
