Are you (or a loved one) in the decision-making stage about assisted living? It’s important to take your time to find the right community.
The latest data from the National Center for Assisted Living (NCAL) found that over 800,000 U.S. seniors live in these communities.
Often, seniors seek family support in assisted living decisions.
It’s also not uncommon for family members with power of attorney to make these choices on a senior’s behalf. This is especially true if someone has dementia, Alzheimer’s, or another memory condition or debilitating health issue.
In this article, discover tips and topics of conversation to discuss around Assisted Living.
When Should Someone Move Into Assisted Living?
It’s never too early to start thinking about these issues.
The official “senior age” starts at 65. More people retire at this age, as well.
Recent data shows that around 70% of adults retire between the ages of 65 and 69. Thus, it helps to start thinking about retirement and assisted living well before these milestones.
It’s important to differentiate between different types of senior living options. For example, there are senior neighborhoods and retirement communities more suited for independent seniors who don’t require extra assistance yet.
An established assisted living community is the right path If you or a senior loved one requires additional assistance.
Granville is one of these communities.
This structure features the following conveniences:
- Medication management
- Concierge services
- Transportation
- Customized living schedules
- Daily meal plans and dining
- Activity programs
- Weekly outings
Concierge services assign a coordinator to help with transportation bookings, flight scheduling, and ticket purchasing.
Assisted Living Tips for Daily Chores
Residents also have access to weekly laundry services and housekeeping services. As seniors grow older, these chores may take longer to complete. An assisted living service frees up time so residents can focus on overall well-being.
It may be time to transition to an assisted living community that can accommodate these life changes while maintaining independence if you or someone you love is struggling with daily chores.
More people are starting to pre-plan these decisions well before 65 years old. Assisted living falls under the long-term care umbrella along with estate planning.
The planning process includes financing, including Medicare and 401K retirement plans.
Senior Living Choices for Apartments
One of the most important considerations is senior living property types.
Many seniors have lived in their homes for years. This fact can make the transition to assisted living a little more challenging. This point speaks to the importance of accepting family decision support every step of the way.
Seniors who live in single-family homes have to get used to the idea of “downsizing.” This term refers to the process of moving to a small living space like an apartment or studio.
This process also requires having fewer belongings. You’ll have to broach the conversation about selling, storing, or gifting certain belongings to family members.
Downsizing and Financial Planning
First, take inventory of all belongings.
A close family member or caretaker may have to take on this role. You’re also free to take on this task yourself; however, if you have a lot of belongings, the task may become overwhelming. It helps to have an extra set of hands and eyes.
After creating a master list of items, think about your options. You can hold a garage sale for items you (or a loved one) don’t need. There are other options, as well, like eBay and thrift stores for vintage items.
There may be items you don’t have room for but would like to keep. You can always rent a monthly storage unit for these types of belongings.
It helps to have a storage unit anyway when moving to an assisted living community, even if the storage is temporary.
Fortunately, Granville’s senior apartments come with a lot of storage space, including ample closet space. Each unit also comes with a kitchenette complete with a refrigerator.
It helps to have family members on hand for the following tasks:
- Sorting through and cataloging personal belongings
- Selling, gifting, or storing belongings
- Moving furniture into units
- Having conversations about downsizing
Seniors should also have family members present when touring assisted living communities. Assisted living advice and fresh sets of eyes are necessary for making informed decisions.
Family members can also help with the financial planning process, especially as these tasks become more challenging to manage.
Eligible seniors who served in the military may also receive a half-off discount on their first month’s rent. You can also apply for additional benefits to receive $1,000 of the second month’s rent, as well.
Elder Care Guidance for Activities
One of the biggest advantages of assisted living is the community’s activity calendar. Senior care managers also customize weekly schedules with activities designed to enrich mental and physical well-being. This approach also includes creative activities like drawing, painting, and music.
Don’t forget to check the community’s calendar when researching your options. There, you’ll find a wide range of activities.
General senior activities include:
- Shopping outings for clothes and groceries
- Art and music clubs
- Game nights
- Weekly walking clubs
- Movement classes
- Meet and greets
- Movie nights
Keeping an active calendar helps seniors build and maintain social connections. When paired with regular family communication, residents can better manage issues of senior depression and anxiety. These activities are also important for memory care programs.
Families are encouraged to visit residents. Granville, for example, is structured like a familiar living community. Family members can join daily walks, and outings, and set up birthday parties and gatherings in the community.
Family members may also talk to a manager about reserving spaces for larger parties.
Family Support in Assisted Living Decisions Matter
Make sure you or your senior loved one gets all the assistance they need to maintain a healthy, independent life in the Granville community. Our team encourages family support in assisted living decisions.
We offer a medication management program led by experienced, licensed professionals. Our living units are also designed for comfort and safety. Meals are provided daily, and residents may prepare their own meals at home.
Book a tour to see our philosophy in action or contact us today to discuss your options.
