Top 7 Tips for Touring Florida Assisted Living CommunitiesNovember 30, 2022Florida is Great For SeniorsFlorida is one of the best states for active seniors. Florida seniors comprise more than 21% of the states population, or about 4.6 million seniors.   And Florida seniors have the added advantage of living in a state their kids and grandkids love to visit. With some of the best beaches, world-class theme parks, and more than 240 sunny days per year, relatives love to visit the Sunshine State. Florida gets more than 120 million tourists annually. Many visit their parents and grandparents and sneak in a visit to the beaches, Disney World, Universal Studios, and many more.Florida Seniors are Active and Living LongerEveryone wants a long life, but no one wants to get old. There are many factors that contribute to a long life - including healthy food, rest, exercise, genetics, and happiness - but staying active is one of the most important. For example, the oldest poll worker in Florida is Vera Craig, who is 101 years old and has been working for Lee County for the past 20 years. Eventually, Everyone Needs a Little AssistanceNo matter how healthy we eat or how much we work or exercise, eventually, everyone needs a little help as they age. Some Floridians choose to age in place at home for as long as possible. Sometimes progressive diseases, like Alzheimers, dementia, or other conditions, result in the need for a nursing home or memory care facility.But more and more senior Floridians are choosing to live in assisted living communities, with plenty of amenities and trained staff, to get just the right amount of care and assistance they need.First, Decide Your Needs, Budget, and LocationIf assisted living seems right for you or your senior loved one, you first need to narrow your search. You and your family should decide on your medical needs, an affordable monthly budget, and your desired geographic location. Then, you can tour the communities to decide your best option.Florida Senior Consulting works with assisted living communities throughout Florida and will help you with this process without charge.NeedsDecide what assistance you or your senior loved one require now and in the future. Your needs will be specific to you, and each Florida assisted living community offers different services. According to the American Health Care Association and the National Center for Assisted Living, the typical assisted living community offers the following:24-hour assistance and supervisionHealth, exercise, and wellness programsHousekeeping and maintenanceDining services and mealsMedication managementHelp with Activities of Daily Living and personal care servicesTransportationSome assisted living communities even specialize in serving individuals with specific needs, like Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia, intellectual and developmental disabilities, and specific medical conditions, like Parkinsons disease.BudgetFlorida is fortunate to have more than 2,400 assisted living communities statewide. These communities come in varying sizes, with differing amenities and fees. According to Genworth Financial, the average assisted living community fee is about $4,500 per month. There are also more upscale units that can cost between $10,000 to $15,000 per month. LocationLocation is critical. Do you want to be near your current neighborhood? Do you have family in Florida? Will your out-of-state family be coming to visit? Once you have narrowed your search with the basics of medical needs, budget, and location, you can begin touring communities to see if they are the best fit for you or your senior loved one.7 Tips for Assisted Living TouringWhether you are touring assisted living communities in Sarasota, Ft. Myers, Tampa, Orlando, Jacksonville, Miami, or elsewhere in Florida, visiting these potential communities in person is an important step. Below are the seven top tips for touring.1. Bring Your Own ExpertTouring assisted living communities can be fun and exciting. After all, you are choosing a new home and neighborhood. But with so many choices and critical information, the process can seem complicated and overwhelming. How do you know you are asking the right questions?Assisted living communities welcome you to tour their properties. But bringing an unbiased senior care specialist and advocate will ensure you make the best choices for your situation. For example, Florida Senior Consultings team knows senior care, the communities, the amenities, the level of care available, how to coordinate care management, and so much more. Unlike the tour directors of individual communities, Florida Senior Consulting is not limited to one place, but instead is dedicated to finding the community that best fits your situation. And this service is at no charge to you. We work with these communities daily and can show you the pros and cons of each facility, so you can make your best decision.2. Compare Costs Equally (Apples to Apples)Every community has its own services, amenities, prices, and options. Making a financial apples-to-apples comparison can seem a bit complex. However, it is essential to know your actual living costs and precisely what is and is not provided for you in each community.  Financially, you want to know if there are any annual increases, unlisted fees, community fees, and more. Also, how do the recreational amenities compare? How are the food plans different? What medical services are available? As you get answers to all these questions, you can compare the communities equally.3. Notice How the Community FeelsHome should be warm and welcoming. When you are touring, notice how the atmosphere feels in the buildings, grounds, and residences.Are the grounds green and attractive? Are there outdoor places to relax and meet with friends and family? Are there flowers, trees, and gardens?Are the halls wide and brightly lit when you walk through the buildings? Are the carpets well-kept and modern? Is the paint fresh and new? Are the community areas inviting? Is the dining area spotless and welcoming?Does the indoor air smell fresh and clean? Are the residences spacious or cramped? What are the views from the rooms and apartments? Are the window sills, baseboards, and corners clean? Do the amenities fit your lifestyle? Are there walking paths, exercise rooms, community rooms, and more? Are there places to socialize? Will you feel comfortable inviting your friends and family to your new home? Florida has gorgeous and well-maintained assisted living communities. Choose one that feels right for you or your senior loved one.4. Determine if the Staff is Friendly and QualifiedNo matter how gorgeous the building and residences are, a well-qualified staff is the backbone of an assisted living community.Are the staff members professional, helpful, and friendly? When touring, observe the interactions between the staff and residents.Are staff members qualified? What certifications and licenses do they have? How many registered nurses are on site? What are the ratios of staff to residents? What are the qualifications of the staff included in these ratios? Does the staffing ratio change at night?Staffing and level of care are significant factors in comparing community pricing.5. Observe the Other Residents (Your New Neighbors)Assisted living communities are just that: communities. As you tour the community, take time to notice the residents as they go about their day.Are they active, engaged, and happy? Are there enjoyable daily activities for them? Talk to some of them and ask questions about life in the community, like food service, card games, family visits, pets, alcohol, cooking, and more.The gorgeous building is your residence. The qualified staff takes care of you. But the residents are the community. You want to pick the most comfortable community for you and your lifestyle.6. Consider the Activities and Food Activities.  An active assisted living community is often a happy one. Review the community's events calendar. Try and schedule your tour when activities are happening.See how closely the activities appeal to you or your family member's interests. When visiting, be sure to observe or even participate in an activity. Look for the range of resident participation levels and how much fun the staff seems to be having. Ask about the opportunities for trips off-site, shopping outings, and the location and frequency of nearby religious services.Food.  Assisted living communities now pride themselves on their food and meal offerings. Find out what meal options are available. Visit the dining areas. Besides being nutritional and healthy, food should be fun and great tasting. When touring, make sure and try the cuisine.7. Ask about Safety and SecuritySafety and security bring peace of mind to you and your family.Ask about the community's safety protocols if residents need assistance in their living quarters or anywhere on-site at any time.Ensure the grounds and residences are always secure, with security cameras, sign-in policies, and security personnel on-site.Ask if there is adequate lighting throughout the community. Do the residents have call lights or pendants? What are the after-hour safeguards in place?The best assisted living communities have state-of-the-art security and are proud to share it with you on your tour.Your Next Best StepChoosing one of Floridas great assisted living communities may be your best choice for health, well-being, and living the best life possible. And it does not have to be confusing or complex.Florida Senior Consulting knows senior care and the available assisted living communities that have the best services and amenities for your particular needs. We regularly visit communities along with their management and staff. We know the pros and cons to help you make your best decision.Florida Senior Consulting has certified staff, licensed nurse advocates, and decades of experience in the field. We are a Florida-based company with expert knowledge of the Florida senior market. While senior options can seem confusing, this is all we do.Whether you are considering an assisted living community or aging in place at home, let us help.Senior living should be on your terms, and the choice should always be yours.Call us, and we will answer all your questions and help you decide what is best for you or your senior loved one.For peace of mind, call us at (941) 661-6196 or visit us at floridaseniorconsulting.com.

Florida Senior Consulting is now an in-network referral partner for major market health providers through CarePortFlorida Senior Consulting, based in Sarasota county, is proud to announce they are now an in-network service provider through CarePort.CarePort is the best practices referral network utilized by entities such as Sarasota Memorial Hospital, Lee Memorial Health System, Encompass, HCA, and Moffitt Cancer Center.CarePort is a referral service platform that guides patient decision-making during discharge and increases referrals to top-performing, high quality providers. Thousands of providers across the U.S. use CarePort to better coordinate and manage patient care.CarePort has worked with 14 million people in 2,000 hospitals across the country. They handle 41 million referrals per year.Florida Senior Consulting has the distinct designation of being the only care management and placement agency in Florida to become an in-network referral partner through CarePort.For more information, visit floridaseniorconsulting.com.

Causes and Prevention of Falls in SeniorsChances are, you or an older adult you know has had a fall. Each year, more than 1 out of 4 people ages 65 and older fall. Furthermore, emergency departments treat 3 million seniors for injuries from falls each year.Falling is the leading cause of accidents, serious injuries, and accidental deaths in older adults.  Falls should be taken seriously when they occur, as they can be a major threat to seniors health and independence. Understandably, falling is a common fear for many seniors, even if they have never fallen before. However, falls do not have to be inevitable with age. There are many ways to prevent or reduce an older adults chance of falling. Causes of FallsAccording to The National Institute on Aging, a number of factors can lead to a fall, including certain health conditions and environmental risks. Some risk factors include:Weakened eyesight, hearing, reflexes, and balance Certain health conditions that impair balance, such as diabetes, heart disease and thyroid issuesMild cognitive problems and some types of dementiaLoss of muscle mass, also known as sarcopeniaLowered blood pressure after sitting or standing up quickly, also known as postural hypotensionVitamin D or calcium deficiencyUnsafe footwear, such as high heels, backless shoes or shoes without tractionCertain medications with possible side effects of dizziness or confusionSafety hazards inside and outside of the home, such as uneven steps and clutterA combination of these factors causes the majority of falls. The more risk factors someone has, the greater their probability of having a fall.Repercussions of FallsWhile some falls do not cause harm, others can seriously impact a seniors health and lifestyle. In fact, according to the CDC, 1 in 5 falls lead to serious injuries and bone fractures, with at least 300,000 seniors being hospitalized for hip fractures per year. Falls are also the leading cause of traumatic brain injuries (TBI). Having one fall doubles your chances of having another.Not only can falls cause serious health repercussions, but they can also be costly. The CDC states that senior falls result in $50 billion in medical costs each year, with 75% being covered by Medicare and Medicaid. Furthermore, according to the National Council on Aging, the financial toll is projected to increase to over $101 billion by 2030 as the population gets older.Additionally, falling can lead to another significant consequence: the fear of falling. Oftentimes this fear causes seniors to avoid certain daily activities, including walking, running errands, and socializing with others. Avoidance of these activities can greatly reduce a seniors quality of life. However, it is these activities and others that encourage movement, keep the body in good physical condition, and actually help prevent falls in the long run.Prevention of FallsWhile it is impossible to prevent all falls, it is possible to reduce the chance of having a serious fall by taking the following actions:Stay physically active. Exercise frequently to strengthen your muscles, maintain flexibility in your joints and ligaments, and slow bone loss caused by osteoporosis. Engage in balance training. Yoga, pilates and Tai Chi are effective ways to exercise and improve your balance and flexibility.Make your home safer and fall-proof. Remove clutter, rugs, and cords that could be tripping hazards. Install grab bars near the shower and toilet, and have non-slip mats in the bathroom and shower. Make sure the stairs have handrails and that the house has ample lighting. Keep frequently-used items in cabinets within reach so you do not have to use a step stool.Have your hearing and vision checked at least once a year. Even the slightest changes in hearing and sight are linked to an increased fall risk. If you wear eyeglasses, make sure they are up to date.Talk to your doctor. Your doctor can evaluate your risk of falling, check your blood pressure, review your medications for potential dizziness side effects, and recommend certain supplements if needed.Get enough sleep. Being tired makes you more likely to have a fall. It is recommended that adults get 7-9 hours of sleep each night.Avoid or limit alcohol. Too much alcohol consumption can lead to balance issues and falls.Use a cane or walker. These assistive devices can help steady you when you walk. Make sure your cane or walker is the right size for you and the wheels roll smoothly.Take extra caution in wet conditions. Consider staying indoors in these conditions as a precaution. Take advantage of the delivery services offered by many grocery stores and pharmacies instead.Choose safe footwear. For full foot support, wear non-skid, rubber soled shoes with low heels. Do not walk around in socks or slippers without traction.Next StepsWhen you or a loved one have a fall, it can reveal or trigger the need for additional support. Whether you are looking for support in a residential senior community or are seeking in-home care services, Florida Senior Consulting can help. Our certified staff and licensed nurse advocates will find you the care you need to lead a healthy lifestyle, stay safe and lower your risk of falls and injuries. With this peace of mind ultimately comes a better quality of life. Call us today at (941) 661-6196 or visit floridaseniorconsulting.com to talk to an expert about your individual situation, needs and preferences. We will find you the care you need to live your best life. 

What is Independent Living and Is It Right For Me?December 7, 2022For many seniors, independent living sounds like a dream. A hassle-free, social community with engaging activities, housekeeping, home maintenance services, and meal preparation all in one place? What could be better? But if you are an active, physically independent older adult, this dream could be your reality.What is an independent living community?An independent living community refers to a variety of residential options that offer a convenient lifestyle for active, social adults while allowing for independence. These communities are usually intended for adults ages 55 and older. Often these adults are retired or have plans to retire in the near future.Independent living communities offer a range of amenities and services, such as housekeeping, meal preparation, transportation, and home maintenance. They also usually include fitness classes, travel opportunities, educational and cultural events, and plenty of other offerings. Independent living community residences can consist of apartments, townhomes, or single-family houses. Different levels of amenities, services, and benefits are available in independent living communities of varying price ranges. There are over 600 independent living communities in the state of Florida.If you are physically independent but want to live near other people of the same age with similar interests, an independent living community may be your best choice.Types of independent living communitiesThere are 2 main types of independent living communities: retirement communities and continuing care senior housing communities (CCSHCs).Retirement CommunitiesRetirement communities are intended for adults ages 55 and older who want to live independently while enjoying certain amenities. Retirement communities frequently have a swimming pool, golf course, clubhouse, tennis courts, bocce ball courts, and billiards, among other amenities. Retirement communities also usually offer a variety of opportunities for socializing, such as parties, cultural events, entertainment, and fitness classes. Some retirement communities offer options to lease or buy a residence. Usually, rent includes basic utilities and the use of all amenities. For those who choose to buy a residence, there are extra fees involved for maintenance and upkeep services.Continuing Care Senior Housing Communities (CCSHC)Also known as senior housing communities, CCSHCs offer higher levels of care along with independent living. Specifically, these communities usually also offer in-home care, assisted living, memory care, and skilled nursing care.A benefit of CCSHCs is that they offer on-demand medical care if needed. They also allow seniors to transition from lower to higher care levels as needed while remaining in the same familiar community.What are the benefits of independent living communities?There are countless advantages of moving into an independent living community. As people age, they do not want to worry about making meals, keeping up with home maintenance, and traveling far distances to see friends and family. Fortunately, independent living communities make these tasks easy. They remove the burden from seniors and allow them to live their best lives with minimal stress.Independent living communities eliminate the stress of homeownershipIt is no secret that plenty of work is involved in owning and maintaining a home. Keeping up with bills, cleaning, handling repairs, buying groceries, running errands, preparing meals, and mowing the lawn are all necessary tasks with homeownership.To some, these responsibilities may seem easy. However, as many people age, they often start to consider these duties stressful and inconvenient. Independent living communities take away the responsibilities of homeownership, allowing older adults to live a maintenance-free lifestyle while otherwise remaining independent.Independent living communities offer numerous amenities and activitiesMost independent living communities offer plenty of opportunities to stay busy, social, and fit. Communities will often have a fitness center, tennis court, golf course, swimming pool, and workout classes for residents. Many independent living communities have a dining hall with freshly-prepared meals, so cooking is not necessary. They also usually have laundry and cleaning services along with transportation.Independent living communities provide plenty of opportunities for socializationThere are many opportunities to socialize within independent living communities, including events, parties, shows, movies, games, and more. Activities such as these prevent isolation in older adults. Isolation can be highly detrimental to seniors mental, emotional, and physical health.Instead, these opportunities promote wellness, reduce stress, and contribute to overall happiness for older adults. Many independent living communities have assisted living on the premises for easier transitionsAs previously discussed, some communities - including CCSHCs - also offer higher levels of care along with independent living. This additional care can include assisted living, in-home care, memory care, and skilled nursing care.Because of this setup, seniors can transition from lower to higher levels of care as needed while remaining in the same community. They can still enjoy the same amenities, activities, and services as before, just with additional care. This arrangement eliminates the possibility of difficult transitions and allows residents to remain in their familiar surroundings with their established social connections.Independent living communities give peace of mind about safety and securityOne final benefit of independent living communities is the safety and security measures in place. Safety is one of the main priorities of independent living communities. Residences in independent living communities are designed with safety in mind. Most independent living residences are single-floor with fewer steps, wide doorways and hallways, and ample lighting. Many communities also offer intercom and emergency call systems for quick access to help if needed.In addition, most communities have a gated entry point or require visitors to sign in at the front desk to prevent trespassers. There are also usually 24/7 security cameras on the premises to discourage crime. Many communities even have their own security personnel who patrol the area and secure the entrances around the clock.These safety and security measures give seniors and their families peace of mind about their well-being and protection. What is the difference between independent living and assisted living?Independent living communities are best suited for older adults of ages 55 or older who are primarily independent and in relatively healthy condition. They are intended for people looking to socialize with others, stay active, attend events, and take advantage of the amenities offered.Some seniors like the idea of independent living but need a higher level of care. According to Forbes Health, a common way to determine the level of care someone needs is by measuring activities of daily living (ADLs). ADLs include everyday tasks such as moving around, dressing, eating, grooming, and using the bathroom. Adults who require more help with ADLs are less eligible for independent living communities. Instead, they would be better served in assisted living communities or skilled nursing facilities to receive higher levels of care. Assisted living communities usually offer almost the same amenities as independent living communities, such as housekeeping, meal preparation, maintenance services, transportation, events and activities. However, assisted living also provides seniors more support with health and ADLs with trained nursing staff.How much does independent living cost?The average cost of independent living communities in the U.S. is between $2,000-$5,000 per month. In Florida, the average cost of independent living is about $2,500. However, this price can vary greatly depending on location, services, and amenities. Often included in this fee is housekeeping, home maintenance, utilities, a calendar of events, wellness programs, transportation, and sometimes a dining plan.Most people pay for independent living using private funds. Still, other financial means can be used, including a bridge loan, senior line-of-credit, life settlements, Veteran benefits, or a deferred annuity with a long-term care rider.Next stepsIf you dream of the maintenance-free, independent living lifestyle but are not sure where to start, Florida Senior Consulting can help. There are over 600 independent living communities in Florida, and it can be overwhelming to explore all these options on your own.Our senior advisors are experts in the field and will help you find the best independent living options based on your budget, interests, and preferences. We provide these consulting and placement services at no cost to you.Call us at (941) 661-6196 or visit floridaseniorconsulting.com to get started on making your dream of independent living a reality.