If you have reached the difficult decision to move a loved one into assisted living, or they have reached a stage where they feel like it is necessary, it can be pretty overwhelming for this change to happen. Not only might they be giving up a home they have always known and loved, but perhaps they are facing new challenges they haven’t had to deal with before.
Moving isn’t always an exciting step, but it can be something great if you find the right place to go to. Not sure how to find the right place? Take a look below.
Identify the Specific Need
When moving to a new place that specializes in care, it is important to find a place that is going to focus on specific needs. For example, if your loved one is experiencing dementia, you will need to choose a home that specializes in dementia and memory care. If there are mobility issues in play, it is important that all areas are equipped to facilitate independence and that there are professionals on hand that understand how to support those who need it.
Doing this will help you narrow down options of homes that will be able to cater to those needs, and then you can make your choice from there.
Ideal Location
The home location needs to be something that suits both you and your loved ones if you are wanting to be able to provide some support and be near them. This is why the area needs to be considered carefully. Look for a home that is conveniently located near necessary amenities like hospitals, medical facilities, grocery stores, parks, and public transportation. This may mean leaving an area they are more familiar with for one that is more suitable for their changing lifestyle. Not sure where to start looking? There are good choices of senior care in Bridgeton.
If your loved one is already part of clubs or has an established routine, it will also be important to be able for them to maintain that. Try and find the best of all worlds for them when considering the options. They may find new clubs at their new place of care.
Safety and Security
Safety and security are essential for any care home, which is why you need to be sure that any choice you are interested in has a variety of safety features and measures in place.
This could be anything from simple assistance such as ramps, grab bars and handles, non-slip flooring, and adequate lighting in all areas. You will also want to know what safety procedures are in place for the home and how safe the neighborhood is in general, along with information such as the local crime statistics.
All staff should be fully qualified for the job they are doing and have the right certification to confirm it.
Take a Trip
Once you have chosen the homes you think are the most suitable for you or your loved ones, it is time to put what is down on paper to the test in real life. Schedule a visit to any of the homes you are considering, and get ready to spend time interacting with the staff, observing the residents, and getting a sense of the place itself. Pay attention to factors such as hygiene, cleanliness, and maintenance of the home, how the staff treats their residents, and how happy and healthy the residents look.
