Everybody ages differently, and may face different health challenges as the years go by. Your loved one’s health needs is the major determining factor of their movement into assisted living communities in Sandy Springs, GA. If you notice activities of daily living are becoming more of a challenge for your loved one, you know it’s time to make the transition.
Who Makes the Decision
When looking to move your loved one into an assisted living community, it’s important for you and your loved one to be involved in the decision-making process. Although they’ll be the one living in the community, you are the one most likely to do all the research. As such, you’ll gather insights and facts that your loved one might not have considered. Yet, you’re the one in the best position to help them choose a community that’s best suited for them.
Therefore, it can be helpful to have open and honest conversations with them about their needs and preferences. Similarly, involving them in the research, tours, and everything in-between is a very beneficial way to pick out a community that everyone will be happy with.
What to Consider When Choosing an Assisted Living Community
When considering an assisted living community, it’s important to consider the following factors:
- Location
Consider the location of the community in terms of proximity to family, friends, and access to amenities and services in the surrounding area.
- Services
Not all assisted living communities offer the same services. The amenities are a very important part of any community, as it determines the lifestyle that’s available to your loved one. You should review your loved one’s needs and preferences when thinking about what services and amenities are most important.
Some services to double check include meal options, including whether the meals are tailored to meet any dietary restrictions or preferences, the level of personal care offered, medication management, and so on.
- Cost
Assisted living communities vary in cost, so it’s important to weigh your loved one’s financial situation, to know what they can afford at the time. You can view these financial resources if your loved one needs an extra option.
- Reputation
Endeavour to do your research on the reputation of the community. In fact, you should go a step further to tour the community in person, in order to get a sense of the atmosphere and quality of care provided.
- Support Structure
Different assisted living communities offer different levels of support. It’s good to learn about the team members and residents living in the community. This will give you and your loved one a good view of the kind of support and neighborhood you can expect.
- Social Opportunities
Many social opportunities exist in senior living. Look out for a community that provides a wide variety of activities that will keep your loved one engaged. These activities offer great platforms to build new relationships, and give expression to individual interests.
- Safety and Security
Choose a community that puts safety and security measures in place to ensure the safety of your loved one. An example of these include emergency response systems and procedures.