There comes a point in time when aging loved ones can no longer care for themselves. Families will begin to consider moving them into a senior care facility. We have outlined some of the important factors to consider when choosing a facility for your loved one.
This article is part one of a two part series covering senior care facilities. Learn more about Aviva: A Campus for Senior Life in "What to Look for When Choosing a Senior Care Facility, Pt. 2."
Staff
As soon as you walk into the facility, take note on how the staff treats you. This should set the standard for the facility. Are they welcoming? Attentive? Another thing to look for is how they interact with the residents. Are they bright and cheery? Do they seem familiar with residents? Is there enough staff to care for the amount of residents?
Care level
Discuss with your loved one’s doctor beforehand and make sure the facility you choose has the appropriate care level. Care levels can range from simple assisted living to complete lockdown units. With memory diseases a lockdown unit could be necessary. Will they need a nurse on call at all times?
Living arrangements
Decide what will be most comfortable for your loved one. Would they be comfortable sharing a room with another resident? Or would they prefer to have their own private space? Make sure the rooms are equipped with necessary safety features such as a nurse call button or a grab bar in the bathroom.
Recreation
When taking a tour be sure to stop by and watch or even participate in some of the activities going on for the residents. Would these fit the interests of your loved one? Are there safe outdoor areas to spend time? Does this facility plan field trips or outings in the community?
Cuisine
Plan time in your tour to take a seat and try the food. Your loved one will be eating three meals a day at the facility and they should be tasty and nutritious. Make sure sugar free and diet options are offered as well that fit your loved one’s palate.
Secure Aging wants you to find the perfect fit in a senior care facility for your aging loved one. Keep in mind all four wellderly techniques (financial, mental, physical and emotional) when choosing the right facility to live a happy and healthy life. Read more about leading a wellderly life with our blog "What Does it Mean to be Wellderly."
We can help make life easier by tracking monthly income and expenses, as well as fully advocating for our clients’ well-being and safety. We are here to help make your life easier and keep your loved ones safe.
Reba Rogers, CPA, is the founder of Secure Aging, a group of care managers who preserve the independence and protect the assets of seniors by helping them with financial management. She is also a Director Consultant for BNI (Business Network International), a referral marketing organization which gives her access to many trusted business professionals in the community.
