Assisted Living and Elder Care
When we have conversations about how to best plan for retirement without placing undue burdens on our families as we age, the question of where I will spend my last days always Choosing Assisted Living comes up. Our financial advisors and planners can help us with examining cost and determining if our finances will afford the elder care options we are entertaining, but there are some things that are left to our gut.
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Before our health or the health of a family member becomes challenging, we need to take action so as to avoid being put in a must do right away position, forcing us to make decisions we otherwise would not. Perhaps a year before any type of assisted service is needed or anticipated, it would be wise to take a look at facilities, ask for references from families receiving care and visit the facility at various times of the day.
Few things are ever 100 percent, but watching how staff members and caregivers interact with the residents is very important. Even though many of the residents may be incapacitated in some form or the other, is the resident clean, are the facilities clean and free of offensive odors are things you should pay close attention to.
Are the residents left alone without any services or programs to keep them stimulated? Social activities and engagement are key factors in adding to the quality of one’s life. Also evaluate whether the facility is receptive to you inquiring about your loved one and open to regular and consistent visits. Another key element, if medically feasible, how easy is it to get permission to take your family member on an approved outing for a change of scenery?
Does the facility notify family members in case of an emergency or when there seems to be a significant change in the behavior of the resident? Most people prefer to remain in their homes, in familiar surroundings because they feel more in control. Family members have to be very honest about whether an elderly family member can remain in the home or whether a more structured setting is needed. Families must discuss this very sensitive issue and determine what is best for elder care.
Early planning is most important. You don’t want to be forced into making decisions you will be unhappy with or regret later. Also, do not be pressured into making decisions by others, including your professional support team. You and your family will always have information that no one else will ever have, therefore you will always have everything needed to make the most informed decision. Plan early so when the time comes to make a very highly emotional decision about elder care, you will be better prepared.
P. S. Always Remember to Share What You Know.
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