If you’re searching for a home for your parent or family member, it’s possible you have a lot of questions. It can feel overwhelming doing hours upon hours of research to find a place that meets all of the needs you’re looking for.
Most assisted living care facilities are designed for seniors who are able to keep a sense of independence but need extra help for things they can no longer do on their own.
Here are some common mistakes people make when searching for a new home for Mom or Dad.
Learn from these 7 things to avoid while searching for assisted living.
Doing It Alone
Placing your parent in an assisted living community is a big decision. It’s something you should not do alone. If you’re an only child going through the process alone, be sure you reach out to extended family and friends for opinions. Having multiple perspectives of each available option can sometimes make the decision easier.
Consult with your loved one’s doctors to learn more about any illnesses they might be dealing with. Make a list of questions you might have for each care community. Keep folders and notepads designated for each one as well for easy reference.
Consider Your Parent’s Needs
It might be difficult to come to terms with the fact that your parent is aging. It’s not an easy thing to accept if your parent took care of you growing up, however, it’s now your turn to make sure they are taken care of. Choosing an assisted living facility based on your parent’s needs is important.
Pay close attention to your loved one’s habits. Does your parent have good hygiene, are they able to shower by themselves, get dressed, or do they keep to a regular diet? It’s good to keep note of anything that’s changed. Any concerns you have about their ability to care for themselves should be brought up to potential care takers. You want to make sure the community you’re considering is able to offer the services that your parent might need.
Don’t Choose A Facility Based On Your Own Taste
The idea of living in a new home might take some adjustment for your parent. It might feel a bit strange and uncomfortable at first. While searching for places to consider, be sure you’re taking your parent’s taste and needs into account and not your own.
It might be hard to put your own feelings aside but your opinions might differ from your mom or dad. It’s okay to have a different opinion but in the end this will be their new home and they need to feel comfortable. Choose a community that will continue to make them feel happy and healthy.
Don’t Be Fooled By Luxury
Some families are fooled by the high price tag and lavish features of an assisted living community. That does not indicate however the kind of quality care they are giving to their guests.
Due to do quick decision making, some families find out later on they have to move their loved one to another assisted living community that’s able to provide more appropriate care.
A newer community with updated living spaces might seem like the perfect place for mom or dad. However, a brand new facility is just as prone to have oversights, mistakes and lack of care than a facility that’s slightly dated.
It’s important to not judge a book by it’s cover. Don’t drive by a beautiful community and commit right away. Due diligence is the way to go.
Don’t Rush Your Decision
It can feel very overwhelming trying to make the decision of what assisted living community would be best for your loved one. Don’t let the stress make you feel like you need to make a fast decision.
Some families feel so overwhelmed and they want to avoid a crisis at all costs, they choose the first room that’s available at the first community they see.
It’s important to take your time. Visit a few different communities in the area. It’s important to have options to compare to and see what makes each community a potential winner. You’ll want to choose the community that will be able to provide the care and support your loved one needs now and in the future.
Consider Future Needs
Although mom or dad might be in a good position to still live semi-independently now, their needs might change in the future. It’s important to consider what kind of care they will need down the road. Will the community you choose now be equipped to handle any changes that might occur?
Carefully Review The Contract
An assisted living contract is a legal document. They are usually not too complicated as far as terms, however, if you don’t review it carefully you might miss something. Review the contract carefully to make sure there are no hidden fees, or price increases. It’s important you understand exactly what you’re paying for, how much and when each payment is due.
Making A New Home For Mom Or Dad
The decision might not be an easy one, but deciding on an assisted living community for your loved one is an important step in keeping them happy and healthy. There are a lot of things to consider when going through the process. The good news is you are not alone.
Each community is more than happy to help answer your questions. Speak with family, friends, relatives, doctors and neighbors. Going through the details with an outsider might help give great perspective. LivingPath also provides assistance to help facilitate your senior living search process.
Overall, you and your loved one both have to feel confident about the place they will now be calling home. Remember to stay away from these common mistakes while searching for the right fit for your family.
