Finding the right senior care center for your parent or loved one can feel intimidating or downright scary. You know this is the right step to take, but you’re not sure where to begin. You know you need a place that’s a good fit for your loved one’s personality and lifestyle, but you’ve never looked for anything like this before.
In this guide, we’ll break down the confusion around finding the right senior care center. We’ll shine light on the most useful tips for navigating this journey so you can feel confident in your decision. WIth over 47 million seniors living in the U.S., you’re not alone in this search. You’ll have the process finished in no time.
1. Know Your Factors
There are 4 key factors that are important when choosing a senior care center. Once you outline them and identify what’s important to you and your loved one, your search will become much simpler. Here are the factors:
- Location – First, like all aspects of real estate: location, location, location. Is the center close to family members? If it somewhere your loved one feels comfortable?
- Special Capabilities – Is your center trained to handle all of your loved one’s needs?
- Environment – How is the atmosphere? Is this a supportive place to live?
- Cost – How much will this cost, and is it something insurance, Medicare, savings, or other income can afford?
2. Ask the Right Questions
When you visit your senior care centers, make sure you’re prepared with questions. You should have an outline of things you want to know about, from the medical staff to quality of life. Don’t think that any question is too unimportant. Nursing home staff are familiar with family member’s questions, and the right place would be forthcoming with everything you need to know.
3. Understand Marketing
There’s a lot of marketing at play in the world of senior care. With more aging seniors, there are a number of new centers popping up every month in cities across the country. Nursing home marketing is a great way to learn more about the places you’re planning to visit.
Check out the website and materials. What type of energy do they give off? Are they educational and high-value? Are they updated? Poor marketing could indicate the facility is out-of-date or don’t dedicate time to new patients.
4. Check Security
These days, there’s no such thing as being too careful. Though it’s easy to overlook, always ask about a facility’s safety and security features. One of the most common security risks is from the staff and medical team as well as residents themselves. Asking specifically about hiring practices, background checks, and more will help you feel more secure in your choice.
5. Talk to Residents
An easy way to learn more about a place is to simply talk to current residents. When you visit and go on a tour, try to chat with people who are already living there. Do they like it? Would they recommend it to others? What is their favorite part about living there?
If you’re unable to talk directly to residents, try to visit during a popular activity. Most facilities will allow you to join them for lunch or dinner, but you can also visit during a community event to see the environment.
6. Get a Recommendation
Finally, if you’re not sure where to begin with your search, get a recommendation. Talking to your loved one’s doctor or another medical professional about places they’d recommend is always a good indicator of quality. These people will be familiar with the ins and outs of the facilities near you, so they’ll have the best ideas to guide your search.
Be Confident with Your Decision
It’s time to start your search no that you know the right steps to take. While this time can be confusing, it’s also a chance to deepen your relationship with your loved one. Showing you care by taking the lead during this transition period really shows how much you care.
If you’re ready to make the next step, pay attention to these tips above. While this process likely won’t be easy, it doesn’t have to feel impossible.
