Choosing the right senior living community is a significant decision. With so many options available, it can seem overwhelming at first! Fortunately, it doesn’t have to be—finding your loved one’s future home can be a simple process if you break it down into steps.
To choose the right senior living community, it helps to:
- Learn the different types of senior living
- Identify your loved one’s needs
- Plan your budget
- Think about amenities and programs
- Look at community life
And once you’re done? All that’s left is to schedule a tour!
Learn the Different Types of Senior Living
Before you can choose the right community, it’s crucial to understand the different types of senior living available. Each type offers distinctly different levels of care, amenities, services, and environments.
Here at The Legacy of Saint Michael, we offer 3 types of senior living:
Independent Living
Independent living communities are perfect for seniors who are still active and self-sufficient but are looking for a more maintenance-free and community-focused lifestyle. These communities promote independence and autonomy while offering all kinds of amenities designed to make life easier for seniors.
Assisted Living
Assisted living communities offer a blend of independence and caregiving. They’re ideal for seniors who need a hand with daily activities like bathing, dressing, housekeeping, or medication management.
In assisted living, your loved one receives a custom care plan designed to support them with the daily tasks that give them trouble. It’s an excellent choice for seniors who may need some help but don’t require advanced care.
Memory Care
Dementia and memory impairment can be complicated, and memory care is designed to address the unique challenges that these conditions can cause.
Memory care communities offer structured environments full of routines, activities, and programs designed to meet the needs of seniors living with cognitive decline. The teams in these communities undergo additional training to provide your loved one with compassionate professional care in a safe, structured, and supportive environment.
Identify Your Loved One’s Needs
Knowing about the different types of communities is crucial; it makes it easier to narrow down your options. Once you know about the available communities, it’s time to assess your loved one’s needs.
Start by talking with your loved one. Ask about:
- Their daily routine: What activities do they enjoy? Are there tasks they find difficult or need help with?
- Health concerns: Do they have any medical conditions that require regular attention or medication?
- Social preferences: What kind of community activities would they need to maintain or improve their quality of life?
- Mobility: Are they able to move around independently, or do they need assistance?
- Dietary needs: Do they have any special dietary restrictions or preferences?
- Safety: Do they have concerns about their safety at home, such as falling or not being able to summon help in an emergency?
This assessment can help you narrow down how to meet your loved one’s needs.
Plan Your Budget
Finances play a crucial role in determining the type of senior living community you can afford. Start by assessing your loved one’s financial situation, including:
- Savings
- Income
- Insurance
- Long-term financial aid
- Pensions
Make sure to consider any and all potential costs, like monthly fees or additional care services. Some communities offer financial planning services, while others follow an all-inclusive fee structure to avoid any unwanted monetary surprises.
By gaining a proper understanding of your financial situation, you can narrow down your options to find your loved one their future home.
Think About Amenities and Programs
When choosing a senior living community, think about what’s important to your loved one. If they enjoy outdoor activities, look for communities with gardens, walking trails, or proximity to nature. For those who love socializing, find a place with an active social calendar and communal gathering spaces.
Some communities offer specialized services and programs. Here at The Legacy of Saint Michael, our residents have easy access to:
- Various meal and dietary options
- Health and wellness programs
- An on-site bistro and pub
- Private dining areas
- Spiritual services in our on-site chapel
- A salon
- A library
- A community area full of recreational activities
- A variety of floor plans
Make sure the community you choose has activities and amenities that line up with your loved one’s interests and lifestyle.
Involve Them in the Process
Remember—this is a big decision, and your loved one’s future is going to be greatly affected by the result. Make sure you’re involving your loved one in the process wherever possible, and make sure to listen to any questions they have. Address their concerns, and be transparent! This helps give them a sense of control over the situation and lets them know you’re taking this seriously.
