Picking the Perfect Home for Mom: 5 Key Questions to Consider

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Atrium at Liberty Park

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Jul 18, 2023

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Florida - Southwest

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Finding an assisted living facility for a loved one can be a daunting task, and at our community, we’re always putting ourselves in the shoes of residents’ family members. You’re looking for a fun, safe, interesting community that meets your specific needs. We’ve created a quick guide with some key questions you should ask that will help make your search for the perfect community a little smoother.

1. What kind of on-site medical care is available?
Staff members are the backbone of any assisted living community. Be sure to check out the ratio of certified nursing assistants and licensed nurse practitioners per resident and prioritize communities that have in-facility access to 24/7 nursing services. 

2. How’s the location?
No senior wants to suddenly leave where they raised their family. Close proximity to familiar shopping, dining and arts venues within their own city will help ease the transition into assisted living.

3. Is the facility up to date with the latest advancements in senior care?
Healthy aging requires a holistic treatment plan. The right assisted living community will offer programs that are on the cutting edge of wellness techniques, giving patients the benefit of everything from tai chi to music therapy. 

4. Are residents maintaining their independence?
Group activities and socialization lead to healthy minds and independent lives. Outings to cultural attractions, different clubs for all interests, and resident councils are a great way for seniors to keep their independence. 

5. Is it a welcoming, inclusive community where all residents feel safe and loved?
Every parent deserves a welcoming, safe setting that they can call home. It’s essential to check if the community delivers and trains staff on culturally competent care. Our community is inclusive and welcomes residents regardless of sexual preference, religion, and race. In memory care, our hallmark therapy Validation is based on understanding and respect without judgment.

We know it can be hard to know where to start when looking for the right assisted living community. These questions will help make the process easier by ensuring Mom finds a new home that is right for her. Contact us today to learn more about finding care that works for your mom. We’re here for you!

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Understanding the Different Types of Senior Living Options

Choosing the right living arrangement is one of the most important decisions families make for their aging loved ones. With a wide range of senior living options available, its easy to feel overwhelmed by the choices. Understanding what each type of care provides and when its appropriate can help families make informed, confident decisions that promote both safety and quality of life.Aging in place is often the preferred option for seniors who are still relatively independent. With the help of in-home care services, assistive technologies, and home modifications, many older adults can remain in their homes longer. However, when daily tasks like cooking, bathing, or managing medications become challenging, more supportive environments may be needed.Independent living communities are ideal for active seniors who dont need help with personal care but want the convenience of a maintenance-free lifestyle and built-in social opportunities. These communities typically offer meal services, housekeeping, and recreational activities while fostering a strong sense of community.Assisted living bridges the gap between independence and full-time care. Residents receive help with activities of daily living (ADLs) such as dressing, bathing, and medication management, while still enjoying privacy and autonomy. Memory care units are a specialized form of assisted living designed for those with Alzheimers or other forms of dementia. For seniors with advanced medical needs, skilled nursing facilities (nursing homes) offer round-the-clock medical attention and rehabilitation services under the supervision of licensed nurses and physicians.Each option supports different levels of independence and care needs. Families can learn more through the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Long-Term Care site. Consulting a senior care advisor can also provide personalized guidance and help families evaluate communities that meet their loved ones medical, emotional, and financial needs.To learn more call, us today at 303-957-2555.

Staffing Requirements in Assisted Living

Staffing requirements in Assisted LivingStaffing requirements in assisted living facilities vary based on state regulations, resident needs, and facility size, but there are common standards and roles that most facilities must fulfill. Heres an overview: Core Staffing Requirements (General)Most states mandate a mix of the following positions:1. Administrator/Executive DirectorRequired in all facilities.Must be licensed or certified (requirements vary by state).Oversees daily operations, compliance, staffing, and finances.2. Direct Care Staff (Caregivers/Aides)Assist residents with activities of daily living (ADLs) such as bathing, dressing, eating, and mobility.Must meet minimum training hours (often 4080 hours).Staffing ratios (residents per caregiver) vary widely but typically range from:1:1015 during daytime1:20+ overnight3. Licensed Nurses (LPNs/RNs)Not always required on-site 24/7, but often required on-call.Responsible for medication management, assessments, and health care coordination.Some states require a nurse if the facility provides certain health services.4. Medication Aides/TechniciansAdminister medications under nurse supervision or per state guidelines.Must complete state-approved medication administration training.5. Housekeeping and MaintenanceEnsure facility cleanliness, safety, and order.Not typically subject to state staffing ratios but are essential for resident well-being.6. Food Service StaffPrepare and serve meals based on dietary plans and nutritional guidelines.Some states require a certified dietary manager or licensed dietitian to oversee meal plans. Staffing Ratios (Examples by State)StateMinimum Staffing RequirementCaliforniaNo fixed ratio; must meet sufficient staff to meet resident needsFloridaRequires an administrator, at least one staff per 20 residents during the day, and one awake staff at nightTexasMust have sufficient staff 24/7; no fixed ratiosNew YorkRequires at least one staff per 25 residents during the day, plus a supervisorOregon1 caregiver per 15 residents during the day; 1 per 25 at night (if residents need assistance at night) Training RequirementsMost states require:Initial training (ranging from 20 to 80 hours)Ongoing in-service training (e.g., dementia care, infection control, emergency response)CPR and First Aid certification Important NotesMemory care units often require higher staffing ratios and specialized dementia training.Staffing must be sufficient to provide services in the resident care plan, regardless of fixed ratios.During inspections or audits, under-staffing is a top citation issue.In Florida, assisted living facilities (ALFs) must comply with both statutory and regulatory staffing requirements to ensure resident care and safety. Heres a detailed breakdown: 1. Minimum Weekly Staff HoursPer Florida Administrative Code Rule 59A36.010, ALFs must meet a minimum number of direct care staff hours each week based on total residents (including daycare and respite). Independent living residents receiving no services are excluded. # ResidentsStaff Hours/Week051686152121625253263529436453354655375566541666754577685498869553996++42 hours per week for each additional 20 residents 2. Staff Availability & Ratios24/7 supervision:At least one qualified staff member must be on-site anytime residents are present home.caringdata.com+5casetext.com+5quality.healthfinder.fl.gov+5.For facilities with 17+ residents, one staff member must be awake and present around the clock FirstAid/CPR coverage:At all times, someone on duty must hold a valid First-Aid and CPR certificate (nurse, EMT, or paramedic qualifies) .Responsible staff in absence:If the administrator or manager is absent longer than 48 hours, a written-designated staff member (21+) must oversee facility duties  3. Staff Qualification & TrainingAdministrator oversight:Every ALF must be supervised by a licensed administrator responsible for operations and staff management.Preservice & Core Training:New staff must complete at least 2 hours of orientation before resident interaction.Ongoing training related to job duties and care must meet FAC 59A36.011 requirements. Medication assistance:Staff helping with self-administration of medication require 6 additional training hours, followed by 2 hours annually. Background screening:All employees (including contracted staff) must undergo Level 2 background checks.  4. Documentation & OversightSchedules & recordkeeping:Facilities must maintain written 24hour staffing schedules and time sheets. For facilities with 17+ residents, job descriptions and staff timesheets are mandatory quality.Record retention:Documentation of staffing compliance must be kept for 5 years home.Agency intervention:If the state agency determines care or supervision is inadequate, facilities must immediately increase staffing and submit a corrective plan. SummaryIn short, Florida ALFs mustMeet minimum weekly direct care hours based on census.Maintain 24/7 awake coverage for 17+ residents.Ensure First-Aid/CPR qualified staff are always present.Provide proper training, credentialing, and documentation.Act promptly when regulators identify staffing shortfalls.

Making the Move Easier: 6 Tips for Seniors and Caregivers Navigating a Big Transition

Whether your aging parent is transitioning to assisted living, downsizing to a senior apartment, or moving in with family, planning ahead can ease the stress for everyone involved. Moving in later life comes with unique emotional and physical challenges, but you dont have to do it alone.As a senior living placement company in the Greater Pittsburgh area, weve helped many local families navigate this journey with confidence and compassion. Here are six practical tips to support you and your loved one every step of the way.1. Start Small and Share the LoadLets face it: a lifetime of memories can be hard to pack. Many older adults have spent decades in the same home, surrounded by treasured keepsakes and familiar routines. The thought of letting go can be overwhelming.Heres how to lighten the emotional load: Begin with low-sentiment spaces like guest rooms or bathrooms. That first win builds momentum. Sort together. Create keep, donate, and pass along piles. Encourage your loved one to gift meaningful items to children, grandchildren, or close friends. Make it meaningful. Donating to local Pittsburgh charities or giving heirlooms to family members can bring peace of mind. 2. Consider Senior Move Management ServicesHiring a professional can make a world of difference. While friends and family are often eager to help, a neutral third party especially one trained in working with older adults can ease tension and smooth the process.Look for services like: Senior move managers who specialize in downsizing and relocation for older adults. Companies affiliated with the National Association of Senior Move Managers (NASMM) for trustworthy help. Local resources in Pittsburgh that offer packing, organizing, estate sales, and post-move support. If youre juggling work, caregiving, and moving logistics, outsourcing some of these tasks can give you much-needed peace of mind.3. Make Travel Safe and ComfortableGetting from point A to point B isnt always easy for older adults. Whether youre moving your loved one across town or across state lines, transportation should fit their health and comfort needs.Travel tips for seniors: Add buffer time. Frequent breaks help with circulation and comfort. Plan around mobility needs. For flights, request wheelchair service and pre-boarding. For car trips, pack medications, snacks, and extra pillows. Look into senior transportation services. In Pittsburgh and beyond, some companies offer non-emergency medical transport, including services equipped with stretchers, wheelchairs, or even nursing staff. 4. Set Up Health Care Before the MoveA new ZIP code may mean a new doctor, pharmacy, and care team. Take care of these logistics early to ensure a smooth transition especially if your loved one has ongoing health needs.To-do list: Transfer prescriptions to a nearby pharmacy. Verify insurance coverage in the new area check which local specialists and clinics are in-network. Connect with a geriatric care manager. These experts often know the best local healthcare providers and in-home care agencies in Western PA. Having a plan in place ensures continuity of care from day one.5. Help the New Space Feel Like HomeEven if the new apartment or assisted living suite is smaller, it can still feel cozy, familiar, and full of life. Small touches make a big difference.Ideas to personalize the new home: Recreate familiar spaces by placing photos and dcor just as they were before (snap a few reference photos before packing). Unpack favorite blankets, books, or that special coffee mug first. Bring beloved furniture or artwork, and explore fun updates like a new recliner or colorful accent wall. Many senior living communities surrounding Pittsburgh encourage residents to decorate their rooms to reflect their style this helps ease the emotional transition.6. Emphasize the PositivesYour loved one may be leaving behind a house filled with memories, but theyre also stepping into a new chapter one filled with support, activities, and connection.Help them see the bright side: Less worry. No more home maintenance or mowing the lawn. More connection. Many assisted living communities offer events, exercise classes, and outings. Opportunities for joy. Explore local senior centers, volunteer programs, or art classes in their new neighborhood. Encourage them to explore and celebrate whats next.Ready to Take the Next Step?Moving a senior loved one can feel like a huge undertaking but you dont have to navigate it alone. As a trusted senior living advisor in Pittsburgh, weve helped thousands of families find the right care options, whether it's assisted living, independent living, memory care, or downsizing solutions. Let us guide you through the process from personalized placement help to local resource referrals. Contact us today at Serving Our Seniors to speak with a compassionate senior care advisor who truly understands the Pittsburgh area.

Local Services By This Author

Atrium at Liberty Park

Independent Living 1321 N.E. 24th Ave., Cape Coral, Florida, 33909

Atrium at Liberty Park offers supportive independent living, assisted living, and memory care services in Cape Coral, Florida. Voted Best Assisted Living by U.S. News & World Report for 2023-2024, our community provides an exciting and fulfilling lifestyle for seniors.Services: At Atrium at Liberty Park, youll find more than senior living services. Youll find community. Feel confident that our experienced senior care team is invested in your health and wellbeing. Enjoy a senior living community where its easy to fill your days with opportunities for fun and engagement. Our goal is to enrich the lives of those who call Atrium at Liberty Park home. We offer an array of programs and services that focus on whole-body wellness whether its creating an opportunity to socialize and make new friendships or participating in daily activities designed to strengthen your body and mind. For more information, visit the Lifestyle page.Lifestyle: Living at Atrium at Liberty Park is a fresh start to let go of responsibility and do more of what makes you happy. Relish in the simple pleasures and leave behind the burdens of owning and maintaining a home. We take care of everything, leaving you with more time for new friendships and hobbies, daily adventures, or maybe just more time to relax and be pampered.Memory Care: For residents with Alzheimers or other dementia, Atrium at Liberty Park is proud to feature MONTESSORI MOMENTS IN TIME memory care programming. We make every day feel special for your loved one with exceptional care and success-oriented programming that brings a sense of purpose and meaning to your loved one's experience at Atrium at Liberty Park.Contact us today to learn more about our community and how we can provide the tranquility and care your family deserves.

Atrium at Liberty Park

Assisted Living 1321 N.E. 24th Ave., Cape Coral, Florida, 33909

Atrium at Liberty Park offers supportive independent living, assisted living, and memory care services in Cape Coral, Florida. Voted Best Assisted Living by U.S. News & World Report for 2023-2024, our community provides an exciting and fulfilling lifestyle for seniors.Services: At Atrium at Liberty Park, youll find more than senior living services. Youll find community. Feel confident that our experienced senior care team is invested in your health and wellbeing. Enjoy a senior living community where its easy to fill your days with opportunities for fun and engagement. Our goal is to enrich the lives of those who call Atrium at Liberty Park home. We offer an array of programs and services that focus on whole-body wellness whether its creating an opportunity to socialize and make new friendships or participating in daily activities designed to strengthen your body and mind. For more information, visit the Lifestyle page.Lifestyle: Living at Atrium at Liberty Park is a fresh start to let go of responsibility and do more of what makes you happy. Relish in the simple pleasures and leave behind the burdens of owning and maintaining a home. We take care of everything, leaving you with more time for new friendships and hobbies, daily adventures, or maybe just more time to relax and be pampered.Memory Care: For residents with Alzheimers or other dementia, Atrium at Liberty Park is proud to feature MONTESSORI MOMENTS IN TIME memory care programming. We make every day feel special for your loved one with exceptional care and success-oriented programming that brings a sense of purpose and meaning to your loved one's experience at Atrium at Liberty Park.Contact us today to learn more about our community and how we can provide the tranquility and care your family deserves.

Atrium at Liberty Park

Memory Care 1321 N.E. 24th Ave., Cape Coral, Florida, 33909

Atrium at Liberty Park offers supportive independent living, assisted living, and memory care services in Cape Coral, Florida. Voted Best Assisted Living by U.S. News & World Report for 2023-2024, our community provides an exciting and fulfilling lifestyle for seniors.Services: At Atrium at Liberty Park, youll find more than senior living services. Youll find community. Feel confident that our experienced senior care team is invested in your health and wellbeing. Enjoy a senior living community where its easy to fill your days with opportunities for fun and engagement. Our goal is to enrich the lives of those who call Atrium at Liberty Park home. We offer an array of programs and services that focus on whole-body wellness whether its creating an opportunity to socialize and make new friendships or participating in daily activities designed to strengthen your body and mind. For more information, visit the Lifestyle page.Lifestyle: Living at Atrium at Liberty Park is a fresh start to let go of responsibility and do more of what makes you happy. Relish in the simple pleasures and leave behind the burdens of owning and maintaining a home. We take care of everything, leaving you with more time for new friendships and hobbies, daily adventures, or maybe just more time to relax and be pampered.Memory Care: For residents with Alzheimers or other dementia, Atrium at Liberty Park is proud to feature MONTESSORI MOMENTS IN TIME memory care programming. We make every day feel special for your loved one with exceptional care and success-oriented programming that brings a sense of purpose and meaning to your loved one's experience at Atrium at Liberty Park.Contact us today to learn more about our community and how we can provide the tranquility and care your family deserves.