Deciding on an Assisted Living Facility: What to Look For
Half of residents currently in assisted living communities are at least 85 years old.
As our parents age, finding the right assisted living community becomes crucial. The benefits of choosing the right community extend far beyond just meeting their physical needs.
The right assisted living community can significantly improve the quality of life for seniors, from social engagement and personalized care to safety and comfort. But how do you know which one is the best choice?
This article highlights the key factors to consider when choosing an assisted living facility in Des Moines. Keep reading to learn what to look for when making your decision.
A Prime Locale: Location, Location, Location
The first thing to look for when choosing an assisted living community is a good location. There are several benefits to choosing one close to home.
Firstly, a nearby location allows for more frequent visits from loved ones. This closeness promotes social interaction and emotional support. It's important to know that regular contact can significantly enhance your loved one's overall well-being and sense of connection.
Additionally, a senior living facility close to home enables easier access for family members to:
- Participate in care planning
- Attend medical appointments
- Be readily available in case of emergencies
Furthermore, a nearby assisted living community can offer practical advantages for residents and their families. Proximity to home means that transitioning to assisted living can be less disruptive. This is because your loved one can remain within the vicinity of:
- Familiar amenities
- Healthcare providers
- Community resources
Affordability and Value in Assisted Living
After finding a good location for an assisted living facility, it is essential to review the costs. The expenses associated with assisted living can vary depending on the services offered, the location, and the size of the facility. That's why comparing costs between different facilities is essential to finding the best option for your needs and budget.
There are a few ways to compare the costs of different assisted living facilities. One way is to ask for a quote from each facility. Be sure to compare the costs of all the services that are important to you, such as room and board, meals, activities, and transportation. You should also ask about hidden fees, such as a move-in fee or deposit.
Another way to compare costs is to use a cost-comparison tool. There are a few different cost-comparison tools available online. These tools can help you compare the costs of different facilities based on factors such as:
- Location
- Size
- Services offered
- Price
Culinary Excellence: Elevated Meal Quality
The quality of food served at an assisted living facility is important when choosing a community for your loved one. A good meal can provide comfort and satisfaction and provide nutrition and energy.
When evaluating the meal quality at an assisted living facility, there are a few things to look for. First, consider the menu options.
A wide variety of healthy and appealing options is a good sign. Some examples include:
- Oatmeal with fruit and nuts
- Whole-wheat toast with scrambled eggs and vegetables
- Lentil soup with a side salad
- Grilled chicken breast with roasted vegetables
- Salmon with quinoa and steamed broccoli
- Pasta with tomato sauce and vegetables
- Stir-fry with tofu or chicken and brown rice
- Salad with grilled chicken or fish
- Fresh fruit with yogurt
You should also ask about the source of the food. Fresh, local ingredients are ideal.
Additionally, the food should be well-prepared and presented. It should be hot or cold, as appropriate, and look appealing.
Finally, you should pay attention to the way the food is served. The staff should be friendly and attentive, and they should make sure that residents are satisfied with their meals.
Quality Activities for Enriching Assisted Living Experiences
Seniors alone can be at risk of boredom and loneliness, so a wide range of quality activities is essential. Activities can help seniors connect with others and socialize, reducing their feelings of loneliness and boredom.
Physical activities can help seniors stay active, improving their health and well-being. Activities that focus on cognitive abilities can provide mental stimulation. This can help seniors maintain their cognitive function and prevent memory loss.
Finally, quality and diverse activities can promote emotional well-being by giving seniors a sense of purpose and accomplishment. Some popular activities for seniors include:
- Walking
- Dancing
- Tai chi
- Yoga
- Card games
- Board games
- Book club
- Painting
- Drawing
- Music
- Singing
- Puzzles
Mind Matters: Memory Care in Assisted Living Facilities
Memory care is crucial in an assisted living community because it provides specialized support and services for individuals with memory-related conditions such as:
- Alzheimer's disease
- Dementia
These individuals often require a higher level of care and supervision. They also require tailored activities and therapies to help maintain their cognitive function. Choosing an assisted living community offering memory care can significantly benefit residents and their families.
Residents can benefit from a safe, secure environment that minimizes confusion and disorientation. Families can find peace of mind knowing their loved ones receive specialized care within the same community.
Heartfelt Hospitality: Staff Friendliness and Support
Finally, assessing how friendly and attentive the staff are is important when choosing an assisted living community. Residents need to feel comfortable and supported by those caring for them. Friendly staff can make a big difference in residents' quality of life and help ensure they receive the care they need and deserve.
Pay attention to how the staff interacts with residents. For instance:
- Do they seem to care about them genuinely?
- Are they responsive to their needs?
Choosing an Assisted Living Facility the Right Way
Choosing an assisted living facility is a big decision that involves considering many factors. Some of the most important factors include location, cost, meal quality, activities, memory care, and staff friendliness.
Discover a senior living experience like no other at Addington Place of Des Moines. Our resident-focused programs and services offer comfort and convenience. Our community caters to seniors ' unique needs, from quality dining and social activities to care services and chauffeured transportation.
Addington Place of Des Moines ensures seniors enjoy their golden years with amenities like fitness programming, in-room dining, and 24-hour emergency maintenance. Contact us today for an exceptional lifestyle.