Seniors have many options these days when it comes to finding the right living situation, from assisted living facilities to memory care facilities if they’re suffering from dementia. The sheer number of choices and decisions can be overwhelming, but fortunately, there are a few ways you can narrow things down and make the process easier.
First, think about the type of care you’ll need, as some facilities offer specific support. You’ll also need to consider your budget and time frame, as there may be an application process and wait involved. Kraft Elder Law shares a few tips on how to choose the best option for your needs.
Cover the cost.
One of the biggest — and often most stressful — considerations that come with choosing senior living is the cost. Medicaid may help cover a portion of the amount, but Medicare doesn’t, and if you require long-term or specialized care you may be looking at a large out-of-pocket cost unless you have a special insurance policy. One answer to the problem is to sell your home, but it’s essential to take into account the realtor fees and other costs that you’ll be responsible for. Make sure you take a look at your mortgage balance and do some research on similar homes in your neighborhood to find out what you can expect when it’s time to sell.
And don’t forget about ancillary items that factor into the expense of actually moving. Fortunately, researching and finding reputable moving companies has never been easier thanks to online service directories like Angi. Ratings and reviews can help you narrow the search, but don’t be shy about asking for additional referrals, especially from past customers who are also seniors to see how the whole process went.
Factor in the future.
While the cost is a major factor in your decision, you’ll also need to think carefully about the future and whether your needs will change. Work closely with your doctor to determine a plan for your physical, mental, and emotional well-being and to figure out how best to ensure that you’ll be well taken care of down the road. For instance, if you can take care of daily tasks now but have deteriorating eyesight or mobility issues, you may need help with the basics down the road.
Check out the neighborhood.
Just as with buying a home, choosing an assisted living or independent senior community requires thoughtful research on the neighborhood.
Location is pretty important, notes myLifeSite, so take these tips into consideration:
- Is it close to my doctor, pharmacy, or another health-related contact?
- Is it near my family?
- Does the area have a high crime rate?
- Are there schools nearby, or other facilities that might create noise and traffic?
You can look up the answers to these questions and more online pretty easily these days, so do some research before making a decision and write down any concerns you may have.
Don’t be afraid to ask questions.
The best way to find out whether a certain facility is right for you is to tour it, either in person or virtually. Senior Lifestyle suggests paying attention to the staff and how they interact with patients, as well as the details. Is it clean? Well-lit? Don’t be afraid to ask questions, especially in relation to the level of independence you’ll have. Take note of whether you’ll be allowed to keep your own car, what the visitor policy is, and how they handle long-term care situations. It may be helpful to have a friend or relative along with you, if possible, as they can help you remember the topics you’d like to ask about.
Choosing a new place to live can be frustrating and stressful, but with some thoughtful planning, you can make it a smooth process. Talk to your doctor before you get started to map out your needs, both present and future, so you’ll have a better understanding of what to look for in an assisted living or nursing facility.
Author information: Patrick Young is an educator and activist. He believes people with disabilities must live within a unique set of circumstances–the outside world often either underestimates them or ignores their needs altogether.
