Importance of senior care

1. Establish a Care Plan

Always have a plan in place for providing care to an elderly parent. This should include considering the parent’s needs, along with their wants and preferences.

2. Respect Their Dignity

As your elder parent’s physical and cognitive abilities decline, be sure to acknowledge their dignity and respect them accordingly.

3. Know Your Limits

It is important to understand that you cannot do it all alone; taking care of an elderly parent puts a lot of pressure on one’s shoulders and can be overwhelming at times. Consider asking family members or other helpers for assistance when needed or outsourcing help from professionals such as home health aides or geriatric care managers.

4. Make Time For Yourself

Taking care of an elderly parent can take up a significant amount of time and energy; make sure to leave some time each day for self-care and relaxation in order to reduce stress levels.

5. Maintain Open Communication

Open communication between yourself, your parents, other family members and any caregivers involved is key when it comes to navigating through the process of taking care of an elderly parent. Don't hesitate to ask questions or voice any concerns that arise throughout the process in order to stay connected with one another.​​​​

 

Questions when searching for Senior living communities

1. What type of care is needed? Is it an assisted living facility or something more intensive like a nursing home?

2. How much will the facility cost? Are there any extra fees associated with the monthly rates?

3. Does the senior living community provide activities such as exercise classes, social outings, or special events?

4. What type of medical care is provided on site and is transportation available if needed?

5. What type of care is needed? Is it an assisted living facility or something more intensive like a nursing home?

6. Is there a menu plan available to ensure your loved one receives nutritional meals?

7. What types of safety precautions are in place to protect those within the community (i.e., fire alarms, security staff)?

Evaluating an Elderly assisted living community

1. Consider the Cost of Care

When searching for a senior living community or facility, it is important to be aware of the cost of care. Make sure to know what type of fees are associated with different levels of care and what services are included in your rate.

2. Research the Facility's Reputation

Research the online reputation, accreditation, and quality ratings of any facility you're considering. Seniors may have different needs than younger people when it comes to long-term care and assisted living, so it's important to find out how well a facility meets those needs before making a decision.

3. Look Into Medical Care Services

If an elderly parent requires medical attention, make sure that their specific health needs are being addressed in an appropriate manner by the facility staff. Ask questions about what types of special medical treatments may be available at the senior living community or facility you're looking into, if necessary.

4. Check Staffing Levels

It is important to evaluate the number of staff members who will be providing care for your elderly parent while they are staying at a senior living community or facility. Ask about how frequently staff members are scheduled during different times throughout the day, as well as how specialized services like physical therapy might be available for seniors under the facility’s care.

5. Understand Social Opportunities Available

Find out about any social activities or opportunities that may be offered within an elderly assisted living facility or senior living community you're researching for your elderly parent’s care. Knowing what types of programs are available can help ensure that your elderly loved one will have plenty to do during their stay at the residence and remain engaged socially with other seniors within their age group.