Is it time to explore long-term care options for your senior parent? There are many things to think about and consider as you search for the right senior living community for your aging loved one. Avoid these five common mistakes as you narrow down your options.
Mistake #1: Failing to consider future needs.
One of the biggest mistakes families can make when selecting a senior living community is underestimating their loved one’s needs. This can result in their loved one being placed in a community that cannot provide their required care, especially as needs change over time.
As you search for long-term care, create a list of potential communities in your area that match your senior loved one’s needs, values, and interests. Be realistic about your loved one’s future needs and look for a community that offers a wide spectrum of care services, such as assisted living, memory care, and respite care.
Mistake #2: Not visiting in-person.
Websites and social media only provide a glimpse into life at a senior living community. The best way to get a feel for a community is to visit it in-person. While touring, pay attention to the facility’s cleanliness and general upkeep. Try a meal in the community’s dining room, check out the living arrangements, and talk to staff and current residents. All these factors can make your decision easier and help your loved one feel more comfortable and confident in the process.
Mistake #3: Beginning the search too late.
The process of finding a senior living community for your loved one doesn’t happen overnight. If you put off the search for long-term care until your older parent has a serious illness or crisis, you may be forced to choose a community based on what is available, not what your loved one desires. You can avoid this by starting your search early and getting on waiting lists for your favorite communities.
Mistake #4: Leaving your loved one out of the conversation.
Although you don’t need to include your senior loved one in every aspect of the search process, it’s important that you don’t leave them out of the conversation entirely. Talk to them about their preferences for long-term care, what activities are important to them, and the type of community they envision themselves living in. Allow them to join you on community tours so that they can as questions, interact with current residents, get a sense for the community culture, and feel confident in their final decision.
Experience Life at The Oaks at Bartlett Today
Searching for the right senior living community for your loved one can feel stressful and confusing. The good news, however, is that by starting the search early, knowing your loved one’s needs, visiting communities in person, and including your senior parent in the conversation, you can reach a decision together that everyone feels happy about.
At The Oaks at Bartlett, we strive to provide personalized care and a nurturing environment where residents can flourish and find purpose. Schedule a visit today! Get to know our staff, talk to current residents, and get a feel for community life at The Oaks.