Growing old gracefully is both physically and mentally beneficial. In 2022, there were 771 million people aged 65+ years globally, accounting for almost 10% of the world’s population.
If you can afford it, you might want to make the best of your situation and consider a senior living community. But how do you make such a big decision? This can feel frightening, but here’s how to choose the right place for you.
Read on to find out!
1. What Level of Care and Amenities Are Offered?
When selecting a senior living community, it is important to ask what type of care and amenities are offered. This is key to ensuring your loved one has access to the resources and services that best meet their needs.
Determine if the community offers independent living, assisted living, or skilled nursing. Find out what types of services are available and ask what additional amenities are included like activity centers, wellness centers, and social activities.
Additionally, inquire about resources like a library, computer lab, or internet access. Most importantly, make sure you are comfortable with what is offered and that it aligns with your loved one’s individual needs.
2. Are There Social and Recreational Activities?
It’s important for seniors living in these communities to stay active and engaged. Ask about any fitness classes, special interest clubs, and game nights offered to residents.
Ask what kinds of outings are available to the residents, such as museum visits, field trips, and other events. Ask if there are opportunities for outdoor recreation, such as gardens, walking trails, and sports courts.
Also find out what kind of entertainment events the community provides, such as musical performances, art shows, and lectures. Knowing what kinds of social and recreational activities are offered can help seniors find the right community for them and feel comfortable within their new surroundings.
3. What Is the Cost and Is Financial Assistance Available?
It is also important to ask about the cost and any financial assistance that may be available. Understanding your monthly fee or entry fee, as well as any additional expenses, can help to determine if a community is financially feasible.
It is also important to research if the community offers any financial assistance through government programs, such as Medicard. Such financial assistance may reduce the overall cost or provide additional services and amenities.
It is important to discuss all costs, keep track of receipts, and possibly consider obtaining legal advice throughout the process.
4. What Are the Health and Safety Protocols?
When considering a senior living community for aging family members, it is essential to ask questions about their health and safety protocols. Specifically, you should inquire about the following
- How do they handle medical emergencies
- Access to quality medical care
- Protocols around medication and treatments
- Measures are taken to maintain resident safety
Furthermore, you should ask about background checks for staff or volunteers, facility cleanliness and hygiene protocols, as well as the availability of health and wellness activities and resources.
Additionally, inquire about policies in place to prevent the spread of infectious diseases. This could include social distancing protocols and guidelines, limits to visiting policies, and general hygiene habits.
5. Are There Dietary Options to Meet Special Needs?
It’s important to know if the community can accommodate special dietary requests and if such options will be available upon arrival. Meal plans should also be discussed, both from an affordability and availability standpoint.
Knowing if the diet is nutritionally balanced and tailored to the individual will help make the decision easier, as will knowing if meals are served in-house or off-site.
It’s also important to know if snacks and beverages are available for residents and if those items are included in any meal plans.
6. What Are the Terms of Residency and Move-Out Policies?
Understanding the terms of residency and any move-out policies is also crucial. Some senior living communities require a long-term commitment while others are more flexible and offer short-term residency. Additionally, look into the move-out policy.
- Is there a notice period
- What is the process for returning deposits
- Disposing of personal belongings
- Completely vacating the community
Familiarizing these policies in advance can save a lot of time and stress in the future.
7. Is Transportation Provided?
Many seniors do not drive, so having reliable transportation is essential to getting to medical appointments, running errands, or simply going out to explore the local area. It is best to inquire about the kind of transportation provided and its availability.
If you have a specific medical appointment that needs to be attended, find out if the service will be available on the day you need it. Look into the cost of renting a chauffeur for special occasions, as well as the frequency of public transportation.
8. What Resources Are Available to Support Caregivers?
Finding out if there will be support available onsite or nearby for family members who might be acting as caregivers is essential. Some communities offer health specialists, social workers, or geriatric care managers who can provide guidance and assistance.
It’s also important to find out if there is counseling available to help family members cope with the emotions of having a loved one in a senior living setting.
Additionally, the community should offer information on local support groups and other resources. You may visit Rowntree Gardens to get a better idea of how their services and amenities may accommodate you or your loved one.
By asking the right questions, you can make an informed decision and choose the best senior living community for yourself or your elderly family member.
Choose the Best Senior Living Community Today
However, when you research the community’s amenities, staff training, location, and cost, your decision will be simpler.
Carefully weighing the options makes for the best choice. Don’t be afraid to ask questions during the process for further assurance; your loved one deserves the best.
So start researching today to find the perfect senior community for you or your loved one.
