Golden Years: How to Choose an Assisted Living Facility for a Loved One

Updated on July 11, 2020
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There are over 19,000 assisted living facilities in the United States!

Choosing an assisted living facility for your loved one is a big decision. You will need to ensure that any facility you choose will make your loved one feel at home and comfortable.

You may know all of this but with so many to choose from it can be quite difficult to make the final decision. Here is a guide to finding the best facility for your loved one.

1. It’s Question Time

The first thing you should do is make a list of all the questions you have about assisted living. Write down general questions and questions that are specific to each assisted living facility you will be visiting.

Being prepared like this will ensure that you do not overlook anything when it comes time to investigate. Never be too timid to ask relevant questions. Remember that the comfort of your loved one depends on it.

2. Visit During Crucial Times

Don’t just take a facility’s word that things are perfect, see for yourself.

Visit during meal times and sample the food. Go to the common room and take a look at the entertainment facilities that are available to the seniors. Do they have an air conditioner such as blaux portable ac in each room?

When you do all of this you will be able to tell whether or not it is the right place for your loved one.

3. Is Medical Help Always Available

If your loved one is on medication it is important that you find out if there will be medication reminders or if someone will come and give them their medications daily. 

Ask whether or not there is a medical doctor and nurse who is permanently on staff. Ideally, they should be one on duty even at night especially if the facility is far from the hospital.

Illness in the elderly can occur at any time this is why it is always best to choose a facility that is close to hospitals and other amenities. Too much seclusion can make life difficult for your elderly loved one especially when they are used to their independence.

Ideally, you should check out local options for senior living since this will ensure that your loved one is nearer to the family.

4. The Surprise Visit

If you really want to get a “real” look at what happens in everyday life at the facilities you are interested in, you should drop by unannounced. It is a daring move but considering what is at stake this is not the time to be timid.

Make sure you observe how staff and residents interact. You also want to take a look at the interaction between residents. This will help you to choose the best facility.

A Final Look at Assisted Living Facilities

Assisted living facilities are important because they can help to make your loved one’s senior years more comfortable.

The important thing to remember is to do your investigation before you settle on a facility. You should also ask a lot of questions in this way you will do what is best for your loved one.

If you would like more informative health articles. Please visit the patient care section of our website. 

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