Four Things To Consider When Choosing An Assisted Living Facility
Having a loved one struggle with independent living can be challenging, particularly when it's time to start looking at assisted living facilities. The choice to move into a facility like this is never easy, but with a little bit of advanced preparation, you can ensure a successful transition so that your loved one is happy and safe. Here are a few things that you might not think of but can have a significant effect on how successful the transition is.
Social Activities
One of the biggest concerns for many people who transition into assisted living is the accessibility of activities. Boredom and depression are very real threats for elderly individuals who feel isolated in their living environment. To prevent this, you'll want to choose a facility that offers a variety of social engagement opportunities for very social loved ones. If, on the other hand, your loved one is a bit of an introvert, you should look for a facility that doesn't force interactions. This takes the pressure off for people who are uncomfortable in social situations.
Meal Variety
Although options for meal preparations are often overlooked when evaluating assisted living facilities, you shouldn't underestimate their importance. Your family member may want an environment where he or she can prepare meals independently when possible but still have a meal service to fall back on if needed.
Pet Possibilities
Pets can often help elderly people feel more at ease, and the companionship can head off depression. Look for a facility that permits residents to have a pet if they choose, so your family member can have some companionship. If he or she already has a pet, this will make the transition easier by allowing them to bring the pet along.
Personalization of Space
One of the best ways to make an assisted living facility feel like home is to be able to add personal touches to the space. Ask about the options for painting or applying wallpaper. Then, you can create a room that is individual and comfortable. Hang pictures and choose colors that are personalized for both the walls and the bedding or other furnishings.
There are many considerations to choosing the right assisted living facility, and understanding some of the lesser-known issues and tips will help you select a property that will be a good fit. Tour several facilities and consider these things to get the perfect place for your loved one to settle in and get the necessary support.