A few years ago, I realized that my dad needed to move into a care facility instead of living with us. He was always depressed and he needed to be around more people his own age. It was a really difficult decision, but after we moved him into a care facility, he really blossomed. It was great to see him happy, healthy, and enjoying things on his own. This blog is here to help other people to enjoy their own lives and to care for loved ones who need special assistance. I know that with the help of assisted living, everyone can enjoy a better life.
Improving Your Loved One's Nursing Home Experience
Pointers For Touring Assisted Living Facilities And Finding The Right Home For Your Loved One
Nora Jones
Choosing an assisted living facility for your loved one is a difficult task for any family; your loved one may feel rejected and fearful of his or her future with the looming loss of independence and existing social connections. To help your loved one through this difficult time, be diligent in touring the options for assisted living facilities in your area so that you can make the best decision; choosing a new home with friendly and attentive staff, a strong community, and ample activity programs will ease your loved one's transition into their new home.
Activities
Ensure the facility has enough programs to keep your loved one active in all three dimensions: mentally, physically, and socially. Most assisted living facilities have group activities to bring the residents of the facility together regularly. This helps to build a sense of community to stave off social isolation and feelings of loneliness. On-site libraries, or a program where the residents can request books from the closest local library to be delivered, is an excellent way to for residents to stay mentally sharp. Some facilities may also offer exercise rooms or fitness classes to residents; make sure that these are monitored and that the instructors for these classes are properly trained in elder care. Staying active in old age is one of the best ways to extend your lifespan while improving your quality of life. An assisted living facility with ample programs and activities for its residents will ease the transition into your loved one's new home.
Safety
In order to make sure your loved one will be safe and healthy in his or her new home, ask the directors at the assisted living facility about their safety guidelines and protocols. In order to prevent falls, which present an incredible danger to elders, floors should be coated in non-slip surfaces and bathrooms should have well-positioned grab rails for your elder to hold. Another important consideration is the staffing of the facility. Is there always a Registered Nurse on-duty? Is the facility well-staffed at night? How does the facility deal with emergencies? Are the staff attentive and aware of your loved one's special needs and conditions? These questions can guide you in selecting the right assisted living facility for your loved one.
In addition to talking to the staff at the prospective assisted facility, pay close attention to the current residents. You may want to eat lunch or dinner at the facility, which will allow you to both sample the food and talk to the residents. Are they happy with the facility? Do they know many of the other residents? Do they feel that the staff treats them with respect and understanding? Getting to know what the current residents feel about the assisted living facility will give you a great perspective on its potential as a new home for your loved one.
For more information, contact establishments like Grace Assisted Living.
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