After working in senior living, you get to know a few things about a few things. First, it’s one of the most rewarding jobs ever! Hearing everyone’s stories and helping others could fill anyone’s cup.
We’ve also learned what’s important for our own loved ones in terms of long-term care. Here are some thoughts based on our experiences.
Choose a Community with On-Site Therapies and Healthcare Services
Access to healthcare can come with barriers. Hospitals can be many miles away, winters may present us with roads slicker than a bar of soap, or maybe we just plain don’t want to go to the doctor. While many of us are guilty of putting off appointments, little things can become big things when we’re not paying attention.
Strongly consider a community that offers healthcare support. As we age, we may not recognize the shifts in ourselves, especially those little differences that can happen over time and then compound. Diminished strength and balance, medication side effects, weight fluctuations, or changes in our memories or personalities are all important to monitor.
With the help of nurses and access to on-site therapies, residents can maintain their abilities and do more for themselves. You’ve probably heard the phrase “If you don’t use it, you lose it.” In our assisted living communities at Edgewood, we encourage you to keep doing all of the things you’re able for as long as you safely can.
Don’t Wait Too Long
“Home” holds dear memories and comforts that few of us want to give up. However, if we’re all alone at home, health problems and changes to our abilities can go unnoticed and can become major issues.
Working in senior living, we often see residents and families who have waited too long to check us out. Once evaluated, they may not be appropriate for assisted living due to significant health issues that are better managed in a nursing home. Nursing homes provide excellent healthcare, but senior living communities promote continued independence.
Don’t Choose Based on Geography and Price Alone
It’s important not to cut corners in order to reduce costs when it comes to finding quality care to meet your loved one’s needs. Assisted living should provide everything your loved one requires to stay safe and healthy once they move in. Sometimes the prices indicated for assisted living are not all-inclusive of the care. Understanding the bigger picture is important. Ask for transparency and how the cost is established up front.
In terms of geography, it’s always nice to live close to those we love, but proximity shouldn’t be the only reason behind a big decision. Be sure that the residence is chosen based on many important factors versus simply where the community lies on the map.
Don’t Choose Assisted Living if Your Loved One Needs Memory Care
If someone moves into assisted living, the staff will understand memory loss, but memory care offers a different setting. Memory care communities typically have fewer residents, to ensure safety and supervision. The apartment sizes are typically smaller, too, so they provide comfort to combat anxiety due to spaces that can’t be easily seen.
Choose a Community That Feels Good
Be sure that your chosen senior living community is welcoming to visitors, and that you feel heard if you have a concern. Communities have a lot of staff; be sure you know who can help you with questions that arise.
Our Edgewood staff feels like an extended family to many of our residents. We welcome their families, too, for coffee and snacks, informational presentations, and even more importantly, fun!
At Edgewood, we’ve got you covered. Check us out for a tour today and we can talk about activities, meals, care, and all of the amazing amenities that make our communities home. Reach out to us at info@edgewoodhealthcare.com.
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