Assisted Living Community Options

Considering an assisted living community for yourself or a loved one? There are many important details to keep in mind with your search. Assisted living is a type of long-term care that provides personal care and support services for seniors who need assistance with the activities of daily living. 

It provides a safe environment with a trained staff to help aging adults accomplish those daily activities while encouraging quality of life. If your loved one cannot care for themself, assisted living is an excellent opportunity to ensure your family member is well cared for around the clock.

While searching for senior living options, keep the information this article provides in mind. It may assist you with better quality results where you and your loved one feel positive with the community and services.

Types Of Assisted Living

There are a several different types of assisted living options. These consist of assisted living and memory care communities. Some may even offer qualified options for all types of the communities in the same center. The major difference between them is the level of dedicated care required for the best interest of the resident. Memory care communities are specifically for Alzheimer’s and other various dementia related conditions. Some of these may offer and include options for independent living communities housing those requiring much less focused care.

Assisted Living Services

Each community should offer a great level of personal care with activities for daily living. Managing medications is a major factor for assisted living residents and the staff works directly with doctors to provide the proper requirements.

Transportation services should be available to transport the residents to/from their medical appointments and other errands. Since many seniors reside in assisted living communities, quality meal services and dietary support should be reviewed and factored into your decision.

Assisted living options should also offer personal care services, laundry service and linen service. This ensures necessary hygiene and cleanliness.

Lastly, a community for older adults should champion engaging social and recreational activities. Engagement and social activities should greatly improve resident’s quality of life.

Choosing the Right One

When evaluating potential assisted living communities, there are several factors that are highly recommended to consider. Asking questions during the tour may help you with making an informed decision. Senior care should be researched and community tours are typically available by appointment.

• Reputation and licensing: Research the community’s reputation and make sure it is licensed by the state. Ask about the community’s policies and procedures for handling emergencies, as well as its track record for staffing and resident satisfaction.
• Location and accessibility: Consider the location of the community in relation to family members, friends, and medical facilities. Is the community easily accessible by public transportation or private car? Is it located in a safe neighborhood?
• Amenities and activities: Tour the community and pay attention to the cleanliness and overall appearance. Are there common areas for socializing and activities? Are there outdoor spaces for residents to enjoy?
• Services and care: Ask about what is provided and available to residents. Inquire about personal care, medication management, and any additional support services. Find out how the community handles residents with special needs or those who require additional care.
• Safety and security: Check for safety features such as handrails, emergency call buttons, and fire safety measures. Ask about the community’s policies for managing wandering or elopement risks for residents with cognitive impairments.
• Meal options and dietary restrictions: Tour the dining area and ask about meal options and the availability of special dietary options. Find out how meals are planned and prepared, and if there are options for residents with dietary restrictions.
• Cost and payment options: Ask about the cost of the community’s assisted living care and what is included in the monthly fee. Find out what additional costs may be incurred, such as fees for additional services or medical care. Ask about payment options and if the community accepts long-term care insurance or VA benefits.

It’s important to take the time to visit and tour multiple communities to get a good knowledge base of the available options. It is recommended to make a decision for the community which best meets the needs and preferences of the senior.

When options are communicated with the potential resident, it is very important to listen to their preferences since they will be living there. Find and discuss all of the features and amenities that assisted living communities offer their residents.

Ensure the community offers the necessary support and care to maintain their independence and quality of life. If they have much to offer, and current residents are happy, you found a great option to think about. It may even lead to your loved one making new friends!

There are so many benefits that come with assisted living. Knowing that older adults have around the clock skilled medical care helps provide peace-of-mind knowing the resident will be safe. With educated and researched options, locating the right senior living community should be an easier decision to make.

The Legacy at Highwoods Reserve offers one of the most viable options for assisted living in the Tampa area. If you are looking for yourself, a family member or a loved one, our residents are our top priority. Our community provides active seniors with personalized care and support, socialization and activities, safety and security with flexibility and choice.