Finding the right independent living, assisted living or memory care community can be challenging. You want what's best for your loved one, but the burden of choosing someone else’s home and health care situation is often stressful.
There are many factors to consider throughout the process, and it's easy to get overwhelmed during your search. Here are six common mistakes families often make when seeking a senior living community for their loved one, as well as how to avoid these missteps.
1. Choosing the first facility that meets your family's budget
Some families become so overwhelmed by the task of finding a senior living community that they stop searching after they find one that fits their budget. The first community you consider may in fact be the one you ultimately decide to choose, but give yourself time to explore others so you can compare your options.
2. Deciding based solely on features and amenities
Beautiful, brand-new senior living communities can seem like a dream to live in, but don’t get swept up in the fantasy. Facilities with state-of-the-art features and modern design is not always indicative of the quality of care you’re loved one will be receiving. Just because a building is new and clean doesn’t mean you'll get along with the staff or administration, or that they offer community programming your loved one will enjoy. Be sure to consider all factors to make an educated decision.
3. Focusing on your preferences instead of your loved one's
When choosing a community for their loved ones, families sometimes focus on places that suit their own tastes and desires, rather than the needs of the person who will be living there. Assess every facility from your loved one’s perspective, and if possible, involve them in the process.
4. Failing to consider future needs
An independent living facility might be a great fit for your loved one right now, but depending on their health, they may need additional care and resources as they age. Consider the physical and mental conditions they currently have and discuss with their doctor the type of support they’ll need in the future. You'll want to consider facilities that are flexible enough to accommodate your loved one's changing needs so you don't have to start the search process all over again.
5. Not taking time to meet and talk with staff
While you may be the one signing the papers, your loved one ultimately has to be happy with the senior living community you choose. Meet with the staff to discuss their backgrounds and approach to care, and ask them questions about the facility. Getting to know the staff beforehand will help you to transition your loved one to their new home and put your mind at ease by knowing who is supporting them.
6. Trying to complete the search process alone
Choosing a senior living community for your aging parent or relative is a difficult decision that may come with a lot of emotions and fears. You shouldn't have to go through the search process alone, and you won't have to with the help of senior placement agencies like ours.
Welcome Home Senior Services and Placement Co. helps families weigh their options and determine the best Florida senior living community for their loved one. We take the time to get to know each client and find the right match based on budget, care needs, and resident preferences.
Contact us to speak with our trusted senior placement specialists to start a conversation about the ideal next steps for you and your family.