Time seems to go so quickly, especially the older that we get. As it does, we often find ourselves or loved ones needing more assistance with daily activities. As this need grows, so does the question, “At what point do I or my loved one need to consider moving into an Assisted Living or Memory Care home?” Here are some insights on how to know when it is time to explore the possibility of Assisted Living or Memory Care.
Signs It Is Time To Consider Assisted Living or Memory Care
Assisted Living is a form of long-term care housing for seniors. Memory Care is a form of long-term care that specializes in intensive care for those who are living with memory issues. The services that are provided and the level of care that the residents need will vary from person to person. Signs that it is time to look into Assisted Living or Memory Care may include:
- Reliance on family members or others to help fulfill daily living activities such as meals, housekeeping, and taking medication.
- Persistent health problems that require daily monitoring.
- Unsteadiness on their feet which has resulted in falls.
- Inability to keep up with personal hygiene.
- Forgetfulness and continued cognitive decline.
- The need for redirection and regular reminders.
- Lack of socialization resulting in isolation and loneliness.
- Concern for one’s wellbeing and safety when they are alone.
- Aggression, wandering, and confusion due to cognitive decline.
If you or your loved one is exhibiting one or more of these signs, speak with an Assisted Living or Memory Care specialist to discover how to best handle the situation.
What Should People Look for In an Assisted Living and Memory Care Provider?
Choosing the right Assisted Living or Memory Care Provider is vital. Helping a loved one find an Assisted Living or Memory Care facility where they feel comfortable, loved, and can engage in personal interests will make all the difference. When searching for an Assisted Living and Memory Care home, we recommend that you look at:
- Staffing Ratios
- How many staff members are there compared to the number of residents? The higher the staffing ratio, the better. If your loved one needs assistance, are they able to care for them quickly? It is important that the appropriate number of staff are readily available to tend to your loved one’s needs.
- Inviting and fully furnished room
- It is important that your loved one feels comfortable during their stay. An inviting, fully furnished room is essential. Ensure that the room is well kept, has a private bathroom, temperature control, comfortable bed, and linens.
- Delicious and Nutritious Meals
- Do they provide home-cooked meals and tailor to special dietary needs? It is essential that the food that is being served not only looks and tastes good but is full of health-promoting nutrients.
- Engaging Activities
- Do they have a dedicated activities director that helps the residents participate in engaging, life-enriching activities? It is one thing to participate in an activity. It is another thing to participate in one that genuinely interests your loved one. Find out if the activities that are offered can be tailored to your loved one’s interests.
- Accessible Administrator
- Is the Administrator readily accessible to answer your questions or address needs? It is important that you can discuss needs or concerns quickly and not have to wait several days before gaining a response. Assess whether you can easily communicate with the Administrator, and how likely they will be able to address you and your loved one’s needs.
- Residents are Content and Well Groomed
- Are the residents happy and look well cared for? It is crucial that your loved one receives the attention, care, and respect that they deserve. Observing the residents at the facility you are visiting will give you a good idea as to how attentive the staff are and the type of care that is being provided.
- Inviting and Calm Atmosphere
- Does the atmosphere feel right, and does it feel like home? From the moment that you drive up to the assisted living or memory care home, what type of a feeling do you get? Does it feel welcoming, light, and portray an encouraging atmosphere? When you walk up to the door and enter the building, does it give you a positive impression? Are you warmly greeted by the staff? An inviting, calm, and welcoming atmosphere is important when choosing the right assisted living or memory care home for your loved one.
- Great Survey Outcomes
- Does the facility have good survey outcomes, and have they been awarded local and national quality awards? When deciding which memory care home to select, investigate the facility’s survey outcomes. Look at their survey history and determine whether there have been positive or negative outcomes.
These are just a few questions to ask when searching for the perfect Assisted Living or Memory Care Home.
Choose The Cottages Assisted Living And Memory Care
The Cottages Senior Living will provide the best environment for your loved one. Their small, home-like atmosphere and high staff-to-resident ratio helps ensure that the residents are well cared for and their needs are addressed. The Cottages Assisted Living and Memory Care homes only have a maximum of 16 residents per home, which enables our staff to give more personalized care. The home-cooked meals not only follow dietary guidelines but are delicious and nutritious. The activities are tailored to the residents’ wants and desires, creating life-enriching moments. The Administrator has an open-door policy and is never too busy to meet with family or answer questions. The home and atmosphere feel calm, happy, and look like a home. The Cottages are secure but never feel like an institution or hotel. The Cottages Assisted Living and Memory Care has received numerous national and state quality awards for their well-run homes, exuding superior care.
If you are looking for an exceptional Assisted Living or Memory Care Home, look no further. Call The Cottages today to schedule a tour or speak with one of our experts! (208) 475-1805.
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If you have any questions, would like to tour one of the Idaho assisted living homes, or receive a no pressure consultation with one of our licensed Administrators, please fill out the form below. Please mention which location or locations are of interest to you.
