How to Choose the Ideal Senior Living Option for Your Loved One

Families often delay moving their loved ones into senior living communities. They worry that they won’t make the right choice and that it will harm the individual. While it is true that the chosen environment impacts the senior’s quality of life and well-being, this choice doesn’t have to be complicated. When people know the steps, they can find a community that will allow their loved ones to thrive. 

Assessing the Senior’s Needs

Before visiting Belmont Village or any senior living community, the family must assess the senior’s needs. Doing so ensures they know what to look for when visiting communities. Physical needs will play a role in whether independent living or assisted living is the right choice for the individual, and some seniors might require memory or skilled nursing care. Communities vary in offerings, so families must be able to share information about the senior’s health conditions, their medication management needs, and whether they require assistance with personal care tasks. 

When selecting a senior living community, social and emotional well-being must also be considered. Senior living communities should offer socialization opportunities so residents won’t be lonely. Regular interactions help boost their mood, and a community might offer events, classes, clubs, and travel opportunities to keep residents engaged. The meaningful connections formed during these interactions will improve the senior’s quality of life. 

Types of Living Communities

Families must have a basic understanding of the various types of senior living communities. Independent living is for older adults who can live alone but want to be surrounded by their peers. These communities offer amenities and services for seniors, such as community centers, swimming pools, and maintenance-free living. However, the residents have their living quarters and maintain the highest level of independence, as the name suggests. 

Assisted living is an option for those who need help with daily activities. The goal is to allow seniors to remain as independent as possible while having access to help when needed. The community may help with bathing, transportation, or medication reminders. Each resident has a care plan to confirm their needs are met. The goal is to provide the seniors with as much freedom as possible while providing support as needed. 

Memory care benefits seniors with dementia and other cognitive issues. This community provides specialized care and support in a structured environment to keep residents safe. Staff members create specialized programs to slow the progression of cognitive decline while engaging residents and providing them with mental stimulation. 

Skilled nursing communities are for seniors who need around-the-clock care. Staff members provide advanced support and will complete medical tasks for residents. These communities are often used by seniors who are recovering following an illness or injury or when they have been hospitalized. Staff members help them get back on their feet and regain as much independence as possible. 

Is It Time to Move to Senior Living?

Families should never decide that a loved one needs to move to a senior living community without consulting this individual. Seniors who are involved in the decision as to where they will live do better than those who aren’t given a choice. Allow the seniors to visit different communities to find the one they feel is the best fit. 

Family members, however, should trust their instincts. If something doesn’t feel right about a community, this community should be removed from the list. It’s better to be safe than sorry. 

Talk with the senior’s medical team to see if they have recommendations regarding senior living arrangements. The team is familiar with the senior and their needs and can make personalized recommendations. They can provide advice and resources for families. 

Families should spend time evaluating all options with seniors. Rushing the process could harm the senior’s mental, physical, and emotional health. When families are diligent about the process, they can find a setting that will support the loved one’s happiness and well-being while allowing them to shine.