When it comes to choosing a happy, healthy and independent retirement, there is no one-size-fits-all solution. There are lots of different options when it comes to senior living, from continuing care communities to home-based assistance programs. These senior living communities are a good fit for adults who need assistance with everyday tasks like dressing or bathing but who don’t need nursing services on site. These communities will have the support services and activities you need to thrive without in-home caregivers. If you or someone you love needs assistance but not as much supervision as a nursing home provides, continuing care retirement communities can be an excellent choice for your golden years. Here’s what you should look for in a senior living community if this sounds like the perfect home for you:
Activities and Events
Participation in social activities and events is a great way to get to know your neighbors and make new friends. Active communities often feature special events like book clubs, concerts or guest speakers. Some communities even offer excursions such Access to Adventure, a program that provides outdoor adventures to people with limited mobility. It’s also important to note that not all seniors can participate in your community’s activities and events. Seniors with limited mobility will want to look for a community with special accommodations like handheld remotes in the TV room and lower kitchen cabinets.
Dining Options
While it’s nice to have the option to eat in your apartment, it’s also important to have a central dining area. This encourages residents to get out of their apartments and interact with one another. If you have dietary restrictions or needs, be sure to ask about the food choices at your senior living community. You can still eat healthy even if you have dietary restrictions or allergies. More than just the food that’s served at the dining room, you should consider the cleanliness of the kitchen and storage areas as well.
Environment and Atmosphere
You want to make sure that the senior living community has a vibe that suits you. Visiting during different times of the day will help you get a good feel for the place. For example, you might want to visit during meal times to see how the staff and other residents interact. If you have pets, you’ll want to make sure that the community is pet-friendly. If a particular breed is not allowed, then you’ll want to leave that community off your list. You should also consider the noise level of the community. Does it feel like a peaceful, quiet place? Or is it loud and chaotic?
Health Services
This is the most important part of choosing a senior living community. You want to make sure that the community has the right staff and medical services available. Examine the health staff on-site and make sure that they have the right qualifications and certifications to provide you with the care that you need. If you have a condition like diabetes or high blood pressure, make sure that the community has the right equipment and medications to make sure that you remain healthy.
Staffing
It’s important that the staff at your senior living community is friendly and welcoming. You want to be greeted by smiling faces every time you visit. The staff should be happy to have you in their home and eager to help you in any way that they can. Make sure that the staff has the training and experience to provide the care that you need. You don’t want to leave the care of a loved one to someone who isn’t prepared.
Pricing and Financing
The cost of living in a senior living community varies from state to state and from community to community. One thing that you can do is to shop around for the best deal for your needs. You can also look into financing options. Many communities offer special financing options to help you pay for your stay.
Summary
Senior living communities are a good choice for elderly adults who need assistance with everyday tasks but don’t need nursing services on site. Look for an active community with health services, dining options and an atmosphere that suits you. With so many options, we know that it can be hard to decide which community is right for you. If you happen to live in the Bay Area, check out https://bestseniorlivingcommunitiesinnortherncalifornia.com/ for our list of the leading senior living communities in NorCal.
