Looking for a Senior Housing Facility? 8 Things to Consider

Last updated on August 20th, 2024 at 01:31 pm

Are you searching for a senior living community for a parent or another loved one? If you have aging parents, it’s something you may have to think about as they get older.

When it comes time to choose a senior housing facility, there are many things to consider. The most important is finding a place that will feel like home and provide the right level of care. Here are some tips to help you choose the best place for your family member.

How to Choose One a Senior Housing Facility

What’s Your Budget?

It’s essential to consider how much you’re able to spend before making a decision, as some senior living homes can be quite expensive. With some research, you may be able to find affordable senior housing that offers the same amount of care as more expensive facilities. By comparing assisted living costs, you can find a place that meets your budget without sacrificing quality of care. Plus, many states offer financial assistance for low-income seniors to help cover the costs of senior housing.

Don’t forget to also consider what kind of amenities you’re looking for in a senior housing facility, so you’re comparing apples to apples. If your loved one needs help with the activities of daily living, then you’ll want to find a place that offers those services. Some other things to keep in mind are the location, the size of the rooms, and whether or not there’s a waiting list.

Consider the Location 

The benefit of assisted living is the peace of mind you get knowing that your elderly relative is cared for at all times. However, you still want to be close by so you can see them as much as possible.

For example, a long-distance drive to see your elderly parent may not be feasible on a regular basis. Choose a location that’s close to home if possible. Not only will you want to visit, but you’ll be able to check in more often to ensure that they’re receiving the best care possible.

 
What Type Of Community Best Suits Your Loved One?

There are various types of senior housing facilities. Some of them include:

• Independent Living Communities: As the name suggests, independent living communities are for individuals who can still take care of themselves. 
• Assisted Living Facilities: Assisted living facilities are for individuals who need help with their daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and eating. 
• Nursing Homes: Nursing homes are for individuals who need 24-hour medical care.

When considering a senior housing facility, you should first decide what type of community is most suitable. Is the goal just to be around others who are the same age? Does your family member need help with daily activities? Or, is 24-hour medical care needed? Once you’ve determined what type of community you’re looking for, you can narrow your search.

Think About Personal Needs

All seniors have their own set of unique circumstances. As we just mentioned, some may be living with serious health conditions while others are active and completely independent, only needing minor accommodations.  For instance, if your family member has mobility issues or struggles with stairs, ensure they have a stairlift or ramp to enhance accessibility.

Also consider individual preferences and other needs. Is your loved one looking for an active community with lots to do in a larger city? Maybe they want a more relaxed, smaller setting. Additionally, take into account any specific cultural or religious preferences your loved one may have when choosing a senior housing facility.

Are there pets to consider? Pets are sometimes allowed in independent living homes, so make sure to check. You may even want to look at things like the facility’s menu if your parent or relative has dietary restrictions?

Answering these kinds of questions will help you put together a list of a few options, making finding the right senior housing facility much easier. Don’t hesitate to ask friends and family for recommendations as well.  

Interview the Facility’s Representatives 

Talk to the facility’s staff to get a feel for how the facility is run and how you feel they would treat your loved one. If they are short with you, seem impatient, or aren’t forthcoming in answering questions, that is not a good sign.

Always find out what the ratio of staff to residents is. A higher ratio means more individualized attention for each resident. Also, ask about the average length of stay for employees. A high turnover rate could be indicative of a problem at the facility.

Evaluate The Amenities 

Different types of senior housing facilities offer different amenities. When considering a senior housing facility, make sure to evaluate the services that are available and whether they fit your loved one’s needs.

For example, some facilities have on-site restaurants. Some offer transportation services, while others may not. Consider what amenities are most important, and use that as a way to narrow down your choices. 

Talk To Former or Current Residents and Their Families

It would also be smart to talk to current residents or their families who have used the facilities you’re considering. This will give you a more realistic idea of what the place is actually like and what the conditions are day-to-day. You can also get some tips on what to look for and what questions to ask the staff as you continue your search. 

It’s best to have all the information you can before making a decision, rather than to be unpleasantly surprised down the road.

Compare Your Options 

Once you’ve found a few viable choices for senior living, it’s time to start comparing them. Here are some key factors to keep in mind as you evaluate your options:

• Location: Is the facility conveniently located? If not, how easy is it to get to?
• Size: How large is the facility? Does it feel too big or too small?
• Services and amenities: What services and amenities does the facility offer? Are they appropriate for your family member’s needs and wants?
• Cost: How much does the facility cost? Is it affordable for you or your loved one?

Keep these factors in mind as you tour different facilities and ask questions. By taking the time to compare your options, you can find the best senior living arrangement for you or your loved one.

Your loved ones deserve the best care, but unfortunately, budget constraints are a fact of life. Look over all the amenities, and gather as much information as possible. With these tips, you have the best shot at finding an affordable senior housing facility in a good location that meets your senior family member’s needs.

Also read:
5 Simple Self-Care Practices for Caregivers of Seniors in Palliative Care
5 Simple Meditation and Prayer Practices for Senior Citizens (or Anyone) and Their Benefits