Time For Additional Care? Steps To Take When Finding An Assisted Living Facility For Your Parent

15 May 2019
Categories: , Blog

If your parent has reached the point where they can no longer care for their own needs, it's time to look into an assisted living facility. Unlike nursing homes, assisted living facilities allow individuals to maintain a level of independence. Before you choose an assisted living facility for your parent, here are four areas you need to investigate.

Ensure the Appropriate Level of Care

When it comes to choosing an assisted living facility for your parent, it's important that you ensure the appropriate level of care will be provided. Each assisted living facility will offer varying degrees of assistance. Choosing an assisted living facility with the appropriate level of care will ensure that your parent's needs are met. Some of the needs you should consider include the following:

Memory – care for mild to moderate dementia or Alzheimer's
Mobility – care for mobility issues that interfere with daily life
Personal – care for hygiene, feeding and other personal needs

Choose the Right Community

When choosing an assisted living facility for your parent, take the time to make sure you choose one that will be a good fit. Most assisted living facilities provide a community atmosphere that helps residents assimilate to their new surroundings. If your parent prefers a more relaxed and small-town feel, choose an assisted living facility that provides that type of atmosphere. However, if your parent is more comfortable in a larger community setting, consider choosing a multi-story, apartment-style setting. Also, if your other parent might be making the move as well, you'll want to choose a facility that has spousal accommodations available.

Ask About Companion Pets

When it's time to place your parent in an assisted living facility and you're worried about their comfort level in a new environment, ask about policies regarding companion pets. A companion pet may provide your parent with the comfort they need to alleviate the stress that can come with a new living environment. If your parent has a pet that has become their trusted companion, ask if accommodations can be made to allow their pet to come with them.

Allow for A Breaking-In Period

When it comes to moving your parent into an assisted living facility, they may need some time to adjust to the changes. Be sure to give your parent the time they need to get used to their new home. While they're adjusting to their new life, be sure to visit your parent as often as possible. A familiar face will help your parent through the transition.

Keep these tips in mind as you begin contacting local assisted living options like Mayfair Village Retirement Community.

About Me

I never thought I would be putting a parent into assisted living. I always imagined that, when they couldn't live alone, my parents would live with me and I would care for them. What I didn't bargain for was my dad passing away when I was a young adult, and my mother developing dementia later on. I wasn't equipped to give my mom the care that she needed, and coming to that realization was hard. I know I can't be the only one who has struggled with the decision, so I created this site to share my thoughts and experiences with assisted living selection and management. I hope the information here can help you if you are facing such a choice.