Assisted living communities are made for people that need some help when it comes to performing daily tasks, like going into the shower area or preparing meals. Unlike nursing care homes, residents do not require 24/7 assistance. What you or your loved ones actually get is extra care when it is needed. Simple tasks like making sure you drink your meds on time, or even buttoning your blouse each morning is part of the entire package. When choosing an assisted living community, you must consider the following:
Location
Some would prefer living in a community where they used to live. That gives them the assurance that they will be near friends and family, and that they will also be in familiar surroundings. Loved ones will also have the same sentiment at some point. If this is part of your consideration, then start looking for one in your place. Otherwise, you might want to check a retirement community that promises a serene yet welcoming environment.
Services
It is important to choose a community that offers a variety of services for your loved ones to enjoy. A concierge service will be good because your family members are assured that their needs are fulfilled upon their request. The same is true if there is housekeeping and maintenance service being provided by the community as well. Dining, exercise and wellness programs, and medication management services are all crucial in your choice of community.
Size
Size includes the number of beds in the community. Some communities offer a more exclusive approach with rooms designated for each resident, depending on the floor plan you choose. Also, you have to check on the team member-to-resident ratio in the community. Since we are speaking of assisted living here, it would be good to have a ratio of 1:5 or 1:6 at the most.
Disease Control
Now that we are in a COVID-19 situation, we need to find ways to ensure that the most vulnerable members of the population are protected from the disease. It is not the only disease one must pay attention to in an assisted living community. There must be protocols and other safety measures in place in order to avoid keep safe, as much as possible.
Culture
Visiting potential options first before making the final decision matters. That way, you will be able to observe not just the way team members treat their residents, but also how residents are able to adapt themselves to the community, in general. Are their needs met? Are they happy all the time? Does it give that homey and welcoming atmosphere, regardless of the time of the day, or the day of the year? Getting “yes” as an answer to all these questions is more than enough reason to choose that community.
Cost
After you have factored in all the above considerations, the cost comes in next. It does not really matter if the first community you visited is more expensive than the next one. As long as it meets your budget, and you see that your loved ones will be under the best care, you are already making the best choice for them.
