The realization as a family caregiver that you need more assistance for your loved one can be tough. However, making sure that you are vigilant and prepared with questions during a tour of the residence can help ease your trepidation. A good community will be ready and willing to answer any questions you have to ensure that you feel comfortable. Here are a few of the questions that you should ask yourself when considering senior care for your elderly loved one.
How clean is it?
Cleanliness is a very important factor to consider when looking into care for your family member. Senior citizens can be especially susceptible to health issues as a result of a poorly kept building. Experts say that, “Serious issues can develop when nursing homes do not keep up with their sanitation needs. When germs and bacteria spread, vulnerable nursing home residents can be affected in a negative way.” When touring a building for the first time, keep an active eye on how clean it appears to be. Also, take notice to the look and appearance of the staff and residents. It’s all in the details.
What is there to do?
Family caregivers tend to aim their focus at the clinical aspects of how safe their loved one will be when considering care facilities. While that is very important, this is the place that they will be spending every day at. You need to take into account how high of a priority the location places on socialization for your loved one. One of the top five risk factors of older adult decline is social isolation, so it is critically important that you choose a location with plenty of activities on the calendar and a lot of visible participation in those activities by the residents.
What’s the dining experience like?
Food is not only a necessity for survival, but it is also a social experience that is very important for people of all ages. When you’re touring a potential place for your loved one, be sure to stop by the dining room for lunch. Are there people sitting together and eating? What’s on the menu? How does the food taste? According to Senior Housing News, “This next segment of residents moving in is looking for… (a) theme where every meal is an experience.” With that in mind, the experience you have eating a meal at the location should rank very highly in your list of criteria when looking into care for your loved one. Ask to eat a meal with some of the seniors and see how the experience is.
Are the rooms nice?
You’re not dropping a college freshman off at school. As such, you should expect much more than a dorm room. Be sure to ask the individual providing the tour to show you to the model bedroom. This is a big change for your loved one and you should look for a room that feels as homey as possible.
At Spring Hills Senior Communities, we are happy to answer any questions you may have when considering care for your loved one. We are also proud to offer innovative and distinctive care in all of the questions listed in this article. To learn more about our holistic approach to caring for your loved one, contact us.