 |
How
will I know when it’s time for assisted living? |
|
Not
everyone is ready for alternate living at the same time. There
are many things to consider when making a lifestyle change
from your home to “our” home. First, are you experiencing
any health-related problems that limits your ability to take
care of your every day needs, such as cooking, cleaning, personal
hygiene, shopping, etc? Second, do you feel you are lacking
in socialization or feel bored and lonely? Third, do you wish
to live in a beautiful environment, full of amenities and
activities that help in feeling comfortable and pampered?
If “Yes” is the answer to any or all of these questions, then
it may be time for you to consider looking into assisted living. |
|
Do
all assisted living facilities offer the same services? |
|
No.
Assisted Living communities differ in services, lifestyles,
amenities, levels of care, apartment features, apartment layouts,
recreational programs and food programs. Prepare yourself
prior to touring a facility by writing a list of questions
that pertain to services offered. |
|
What can I bring from home to add to my apartment? |
|
You
may bring any furniture, art work and decorations that will
make your apartment special and reflect your individual style.
If you chose not to bring in furniture, furnished apartments
may be available. |
|
Are
pets allowed? |
|
Pets
are welcome, with documentation of immunizations and a one-time,
minor fee. If you like animals, but don’t have one of your
own, animals from various organizations visit every so often
during activity programs. |
|
Is
smoking allowed? |
|
Most
communities have been designed with designated smoking areas
where residents and guests are free to smoke. For the safety
of the residents and staff, smoking is not permitted in any
common area or resident room. |
|
How
are the monthly fees determined? |
|
Residents’
monthly fees are determined by the size of the apartment,
as well as the level of services provided. All residents are
different. Some may need little assistance and some may require
additional services and more frequent assistance. |
|
How
do I pay for services? |
|
Residents
pay for their apartment and services monthly, either through
private funds or long-term care insurance programs.
|
|
What
types of services are offered for Alzheimer’s and Dementia
patients? |
|
Not
all assisted living facilities offer Alzheimer’s and Dementia
services. Alzheimer’s areas typically have exit control environments
with staff who understand the unique needs of Alzheimer’s
residents. Recreational and social programs differ from those
offered to non-cognitively impaired people. Before you chose
a dementia unit or program, thoroughly investigate and observe
the program. |
|
What
is “Aging in Place”? |
|
“Aging
in Place” refers to service provision to assisted living residents
as their needs change and increase. Many lifestyles and care
levels that accommodate the changing needs of residents are
offered. The goal is to help a resident remain with us for
as long as possible. Each state regulates service provision
in assisted living facilities, so there may come a time when
a resident can no longer remain in an assisted living facility. |
|
Can
residents come and go as they please? |
|
Absolutely.
It is no different than living at home. If you go away over
night or for a week, it is your prerogative. The only exception
is for Alzheimer’s residents whose access is limited for their
safety. |
