Choosing the right community for an aging loved one can seem challenging and even overwhelming. This significant decision requires careful thought, research, and time. Many options are available if your senior loved one needs minimal care or specialized options like memory care. Choosing a community that will allow your senior loved one to thrive while remaining safe is essential. This guide will help you and your family decide which community best fits.
Assessing Your Loved One’s Needs
Before you seek Avista Senior Living, assessing your loved one’s needs is essential. Taking the time to evaluate your senior loved one’s needs will help you determine which community will best benefit their needs.
Level of Care
How healthy and mobile is your loved one? Do they need help with daily tasks? Are they experiencing signs of cognitive decline? If your loved one only needs some intervention and monitoring, assisted living may be the answer. Seniors who have dementia or serious health issues will require more integrative care, such as skilled nursing.
Social and Recreational Interests
Surveying your loved one’s social interactions and personal interests is essential. Seniors often suffer from social isolation and can develop depression as a result. It is necessary to choose a community that offers a vibrant social calendar. The goal should be to help seniors stay socially engaged so they do not feel lonely and can live life to the fullest. The community should enhance the senior loved one’s life.
Medical and Mobility Needs
As people age, they often develop chronic health conditions and mobility concerns that make it unsafe for them to live alone. If your loved one suffers from mobility concerns or specific health issues, they need a community that offers enhanced accessibility. Consider communities with on-site healthcare. You must select a community that aligns with your loved one’s unique needs.
Independence Vs. Assistance
Many seniors thrive in independent living, but some need more assistance than these communities offer. Those who need various degrees of assistance will need assisted living. It is essential to get help from your loved one’s doctor to determine the level of care.
Exploring the Various Community Options
There are many types of senior living communities. Learning about the options will help you and your family to make the correct decision. Consider the following options to see which will be most beneficial for your loved one.
Independent Living
Independent living is ideal for seniors who remain active and healthy. These communities allow seniors to focus on enjoying life without maintenance chores. Independent living provides seniors with social engagement and recreational activities that keep them healthy and happy.
Assisted Living
Assisted living communities provide daily support at varying levels for senior residents. Residents can receive help with bathing, dressing, and taking medications. Assisted living promotes independence while offering a comfortable environment for seniors.
Memory Care
Memory care communities are designed for seniors with cognitive declines caused by conditions like dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. They offer specialized care and security.
Skilled Nursing Facilities
Skilled nursing facilities provide around-the-clock medical care for seniors with serious health issues. These facilities offer necessary services to seniors with special health needs that require continuous monitoring.
Choose Wisely for Your Loved One’s Needs
Finding the perfect senior living community can be challenging. It begins with determining your loved one’s needs and then surveying the options. With careful research and time, you can find the community that will best meet those needs.