SENIORS COMMONLY BEGIN to explore the option of assisted living when they realize that, despite being relatively healthy and independent, they need more and more help with activities of daily living. This can really come to a head at this time of year when, in addition to the stress of routine household projects and chores, they face the daunting prospect of another autumn raking leaves followed by another winter shoveling snow.
In many cases, the adult children of seniors are the first to realize that it’s time to consider assisted living after visiting their parents and noticing certain warning signs, such as neglected housekeeping or personal hygiene, laundry piling up, spoiled food left in the refrigerator, bills left unpaid, evidence that prescription medications aren’t being taken properly, etc.
One factor that tends to complicate the decision to choose assisted living is anxiety over being placed in—or feelings of guilt over placing one’s beloved parents in— the home. However, this reluctance stems from some very outdated perceptions of assisted living. Today’s assisted-living facilities are nothing like they were decades ago. The atmosphere in most quality communities is more like a fine hotel or resort than “the home” of our distant memories. In fact, new residents of high-quality assisted-living facilities routinely make comments such as, “If I’d known assisted living was going to be like this, I would have made the decision to come here a long time ago.”
The services and amenities available in assisted living vary from facility to facility, but residents can generally expect to have their own private, secure, home-like apartment or suite with help always just a few steps away. They’ll also have the ability to arrange for as much or as little assistance as they need. For example, one resident might just need a little help getting out of bed in the morning, while another might need assistance with organizing and taking multiple daily medications. Care is individualized according to the resident’s specific needs.
The social advantages of assisted living can be tremendous, as well. Oftentimes seniors who are beginning to experience some decline in their health status, such as impaired vision or loss of mobility, tend to become more withdrawn, avoid activities, and spend less time visiting with friends. But the staffs of assisted-living facilities typically include individuals who coordinate a wide range of both on-site and off-campus activities that make it easy for residents to stay connected and enjoy themselves with family and friends.
Assisted living also makes it possible for couples to age in place together, which can be very important considering couples don’t always have the same level of care needs. Oftentimes, one member of the couple needs a greater degree of care while the other functions as a caregiver. A quality assisted-living facility will give the caregiver all the support he or she needs so the couple can stay together as long as possible.
Of course, not all assisted-living communities are created equal. Here are just some of the steps you should take to ensure a facility is the right choice for you or your loved one:
• Evaluate the atmosphere. Note the level of cleanliness and maintenance throughout the facility. Your nose can often give you a pretty good sense of whether the staff places a high priority on keeping things clean and fresh.
• Check the staff’s attitude. Observe the staff ’s interactions with the current residents to help determine whether you or your loved one will be cared for by positive, friendly people and that the ratio of staffers to residents is adequate.
• Sample the food. Make sure the food lives up to expectation, and inquire about the meal services provided to verify that they’ll fit your lifestyle.
• Tour the common spaces. Remember, the private apartment you or your love one will occupy is just one part of the facility’s overall living space. As you tour, carefully assess any outdoor spaces, activity rooms, and other common areas. Are they clean, inviting, well-maintained, safe, and secure? Also, consider the quality and safety of the neighborhood surrounding the facility.
• Participate in an activity. Just as it’s important to try the food, it’s a good idea to participate in one of the activities the community offers to get a sense of whether they’re thoughtfully planned, well attended, and enjoyable.
• Rate the level of safety. When you visit, note the safety, security, and accessibility features that are in place in apartments and common areas and inquire about emergency preparedness policies and procedures.
Most importantly, don’t postpone making this vital decision. Plan ahead and be proactive by taking the time to tour different facilities to find the one that best fits your needs, preferences, and lifestyle.
