Navigating The Assisted Living Maze: What Families Should Know
When loved ones start to need a little extra help, it can be the right time to look into having them move into an assisted living facility. Even though this can be incredibly beneficial for them, it can also be stressful and challenging to find the right location. It’s important to not only find the right place for them but to consider the move carefully so everything goes as smoothly as possible.
Know What’s Needed for the Senior
Before looking into assisted living in Boise, take the time to think about what the senior needs to help them live a healthy and happy life. They may be independent for the most part, but need assistance with getting dressed, remembering to take medications, or with housekeeping. They may also start to need help with transportation, being able to socialize, or making meals. Know what they need before looking at options to find one that will meet all of their needs now and in the future.
Look Into the Different Options
There are many different options for assisted living, from cozy homes to resort-style facilities. It’s a good idea to look into the options available to see which type may be a good fit for the senior and allow them to live life to the fullest during their retirement.
- Boutique Communities – These communities are much smaller and feel more like home. They may offer a number of activities for seniors or some amenities.
- Larger Facilities – Larger facilities are often designed to have as many amenities as possible and to have more activities for seniors. Plus, there are more residents, so socialization can be easier.
- Specialized Care Centers – Specialized centers provide more help for those who need memory care, have mobility concerns, and more.
Get Information About Costs
The cost can vary significantly from one facility to the next, so it is a good idea to look into just how much everything will be for the senior to live there. It’s important to not only look into the base cost for assisted living, but extras that may be available, too. Some amenities may be included at an extra cost, while others are included in the base price. Be sure to check out what is included and what needs to be paid for on top of the base cost to get a good idea of what the senior will pay each month.
Prepare for the Changes
Don’t forget to start preparing for the change to assisted living, even before finding the right facility. Take plenty of time to talk to the senior about the move, help them pack everything they’ll need, and emotionally prepare for the change. Moving into assisted living can be a huge change for seniors, so it’s a good idea to go slow and make sure they’re comfortable with the changes they’ll be facing as they find the right place and get settled in to it.
If your loved one is starting to need extra help, an assisted living facility can be the perfect place for them to live. However, finding the right one can be challenging, as can preparing them for the move. Use the information here to get started and to find a place that’s going to offer everything your loved one needs.