A senior’s transition from living at home to an assisted living facility can be a stressful time for many families. It represents a live-changing event that is often dreaded by both the younger members of the family and the seniors themselves.
So picking an appropriate accommodation is important in easing the transition and keeping all family members as comfortable as possible with the change.
If you are the adult child selecting an assisted living facility for your parent(s), here are a couple of thoughts, based on my experience as the owner of Country Home Assisted Living in Parker, a smaller, residential facility in the country.
- Think about the seniors’ needs and wants rather than your own. Adult children will often select a facility that appeals to them without considering their parents’ lifestyle. This can be a mistake. Your parents might not be interested in a huge dining room or a heated swimming pool, especially if they don’t like crowds or swimming.
- The best choice for an assisted living facility isn’t always the closest one. Adult children are often attracted to the nearest facility because they believe they will visit their loved ones on a daily basis. It’s better to find a facility that meets your loved ones needs first. Daily visits are an unrealistic expectation to put on one’s self, no matter how much you love your parents. And, chances are, they will be engaged in other activities offered by the assisted living facility, not just waiting for a family member to come and visit. So find a facility that offers what they want and need to be happy.
- I know I’ve said it before, but shiny and new isn’t always the best choice. Just because a facility is new and has big windows, fancy furniture and beautiful landscaping, doesn’t mean it provides the best care available in your area. In fact, I should stress that a luxurious setting doesn’t always equate to a staff that provides the attentive, compassionate care you want for your loved ones.
- Finally, plan ahead and visit some of the facilities in your area to see which one is best for your loved ones. That will give you the opportunity to see firsthand the atmosphere of the facility and the care that is provided.