Assisted living facilities are an increasingly popular choice for seniors who could benefit from more than home health care visitation but do not require the full care of a nursing home. Designed to help seniors cope with the challenges of living independently, assisted living facilities may be the answer when seniors need some help with personal hygiene, paying bills and maintaining a clean living environment.

Many things, both big and small, become more difficult as we age but knowing when it is time to seek professional help can be a daunting question. While having trouble doing laundry or lifting the garbage may be frustrating, those types of problems might be solving with a friendly helping hand. However, when getting out of a bathtub, forgetting to turn off the stove or forgetting to take medications become a frequent issue, it can be a serious threat to a seniors’ health and safety.

What are some of the signs that it might be time for assisted living?

• Decrease in personal hygiene and grooming
• Inability to maintain a clean and healthy home
• Difficulty driving
• Loss of mobility
• Significant decrease or increase in weight
• Forgetting to take medications or refill prescriptions
• Trouble managing finances
• Memory loss
• Diminished communication ability
• Depression

According to Fox Business, a 2012 Genworth Cost of Care Survey reported that “the median annual rate for a one-bedroom single-occupancy assisted living facility is $39,600, while nursing homes, which provide more extensive personal support services, cost an average of $73,000.” However, some facilities may charge different rates for various levels of care. It is also important to find out if there are additional fees for community activities, such as a one-time admission fee or individual fees for each social or recreational activity.

Other questions you should consider when researching an assisted living facility include:

• Is there a doctor on site? Can you continue to receive care from your current medical provider?
• Are there physical, speech and occupational therapists available?
• What type of security is there for the residents?
• What is the pet policy? Can you bring your pet to live with you?
• Can you bring personal belongings to the facility?
• Is transportation available to residents for doctor appointments? Is there any transportation available for shopping excursions, visits to your house of worship or social activities?

When looking into assisted living options, you must be honest about the level of care necessary, both immediately and in the future, to help find the best options available.

If you or a family member is no longer able to live independently and you are interested in learning about assisted living services and facilities within California, please contact CalRegistry today.