3 Important Senior Living Search Factors to Consider
Jun 25, 2021
Like with many other important life decisions, those who are thinking about a move to a senior living community and their caregivers should be carefully considering their options. There are a number of quality such communities available in your area, and you should be completing detailed research for multiple options rather than simply choosing the first that you see.
At Cozy Retire, we strongly encourage prospective residents of ourassisted living, memory care and other retirement communities to compare us to other communities in the area both because we want the very best care for all seniors, and because were supremely confident were the ones best suited to provide it. While youre doing your research, whether as a senior yourself or a caregiver assisting a loved one, what are some of the top variables you should be considering? This two-part blog series will go over several important areas.
Lay Out Your Priorities
While some of thebasic elements of senior carewill be similar in most communities, there will be a number of specific features, amenities or programs youre looking to prioritize. These themes can be wide-ranging, including everything from basic aesthetics and decoration to the programs offered, qualifications of staff or many others.
As you get started with the search process here, its important to lay these out and prioritize them. Which features of a givenassisted livingcommunity are must-haves for your situation, and which are simply strong desires? Making a tiered list is often a good way to keep all your top priorities in order and ensure nothing is missed.
Making Basic Comparisons
This is also a good time to begin identifying some of the top options in your area, then comparing them in basic ways. Here are some simple themes to inquire about:
Which services, programs and amenities are included in care for the basic monthly price? Are there additional services that can be obtained for extra fees?
Are there currently rooms available in the community within your desired time frame? If not, are openings expected in the near future, and is there a waiting list? If such a waiting list exists, does it require a commitment?
How does the community youre considering fit in terms of your listed priorities from our section above, and would you be forced to sacrifice in any must-have areas?
Reviews and Reputation
Like with any other service business, one great way to narrow down your research is to use various tools at your disposal to learn about a senior living communitys reputation and historical quality. There are several resources you can use here, from compliance with state regulations (this information can be found online) to Google reviews and other forms of online assessment.
In addition,senior careis often a realm where word-of-mouth is very powerful. If you have other family members who have had a great experience in a given community, or if other friends recommend it based on quality experiences, this is a good sign and on the flip side, if someone you trust strongly recommends against a given community, learn more about why before considering that community.
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Alzheimers disease affects more than six million Americans, and that number continues to rise. The progression of the disease is unpredictable, making it difficult for families to anticipate the level of care their loved ones will need. Memory impairments such as Alzheimers and dementia require 24/7 support, and while many families step in as caregivers, the burden can be overwhelming. According to the Alzheimers Association, over 11 million Americans provide unpaid care for loved ones suffering from memory disorders. As cognitive decline progresses, transitioning to a professional community may be the best solution for ensuring safety, quality of life, and comprehensive care.Memory care facilities offer specialized environments tailored to individuals with Alzheimers, dementia, and other cognitive impairments. These communities provide structured routines, engaging activities, and medical support designed to enhance residents well-being. 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Reviewing inspection reports can help assess the facilitys compliance with health and safety standards.Staff Certification and Training: Experienced, licensed, and well-trained staff members are essential in a memory care facility. Look for communities where staff members hold certifications such as Certified Dementia Practitioner (CDP) credentials. Long-tenured staff members often indicate a well-managed and positive working environment, which directly benefits residents.2. Facility Atmosphere and EnvironmentCleanliness and Ambience: A well-maintained and welcoming facility contributes to residents comfort. When touring, observe whether the environment feels home-like, whether common areas are clean, and whether residents appear engaged and content.Engaged and Compassionate Staff: Staff members play a crucial role in residents daily lives. They should be warm, attentive, and passionate about providing care. 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