SENIOR LIVING FACILITY, QUESTIONS TO ASK BEFORE MOVING INTO…
When considering moving into an assisted living facility, there are many unanswered questions that come along with it. According to the U.S Census Bureau, there will be more options in the coming years for seniors. This includes facilities that have the feel of medical institutions as well as a resort-like facility. Begin the search early when it might become less confusing and overwhelming to choose from the myriads of options available. Now is an excellent time to start by asking the right questions. Here are some questions you might want to ask now.
Can I see the rooms available?
For the moment, forget about the game room, daily outings, movie nights and other fun activities. Room amenities are much more critical than social amenities. Start with their room, the fact remains that Senior Living Residents spend much of their time in their rooms. It’s only logical to find out if the right amenities are present inside these rooms. It is very important to spend some time there; will the prospective resident be happy with the room size? Will they participate in social amenities? To enjoy your new home, you must enjoy your new surroundings.
Can we eat lunch?
Make sure you get all the value out of your visit, when you visit the senior care or assisted living facility for inspection, ensure you eat at least one meal on site. That way, you can access the overall culture and food quality of the facility. Take note of the interaction between staff and residents. Is it friendly, warm or disconnected? Also, evaluate the level of cooperation among residents. Are there various age mix? For those confined to a wheelchair, how are their needs being met? If you aren’t satisfied with the answers you get, then maybe this isn’t the right place for your aged loved one.
Most senior living facilities look to place a person at a table with people that may have common interests for a good fit. Getting a new resident to feel welcomed in the facility with the other residents, staff and the surroundings is very important.
What is the procedure for an emergency?
While it is vital to call 911 in an emergency, there are alternative approaches in specific issues. An example would be, a resident has a change in their behavior that is not life threatening, calling a doctor to arrange for an office visit and physical review may be needed. It is important to be sure the facility has procedures in place. ASK THEM.
Are you prepared for aging problems?
Currently, if your loved one is independent and self-sufficient, taking their medications and bathing themselves you will want to include looking to the future. While the hope is they remain self-sufficient, it is important to prepare for the WHAT IF’S of aging. There is always the possibility that needs could change in time due to aging. It is extremely important to be knowledgeable of what a facility offers for future or additional care as available for the unforeseen future to factor that in the cost to avoid having to make future move.
As you conduct your search, do not be afraid to ask questions of the staff, ask to speak to families who currently or in the past have had a loved one in the facility you are considering, call and ask about their experience. CALIFORNIA REGISTRY is a LICENSED SENIOR REFERRAL SERVICE, assisting seniors and their families in locating appropriate Assisted Living and Board and Care facilities for the care, budget, location that you desire. California Registry is the oldest REFERRAL SERVICE IN CALIFORNIA.
Available 7 days a week. Using their experience, understanding and knowledge of facilities and the aging process to assist you and your loved one. CALL 800-777-7575 FREE OF CHARGE OR GO ONLINE: www.CalRegistry.comLeaders in the senior facility industry.