It can be hard to recognize when your parents are no longer able to take care of themselves the way they used to. Even though they want to remain in their homes, there may come a time when this is no longer possible. Do they have difficulty getting up and down the stairs to their bedroom? Have they stopped driving? Is cleaning the house and preparing meals too taxing? If so, it may be time for them to move to assisted living.
Here’s what to look for when deciding on an assisted living community in Georgia.
Find One That’s Affordable
Figure out the monthly budget for your parents’ care. Review their personal resources, and see if they have long-term care insurance or are entitled to veterans’ benefits.
When comparing the prices of different communities, don’t forget to factor in services that may cost extra, like reminders to take medicine or help with bathing and dressing. In some communities, there may also be a charge for cable television or a telephone line in your room. And there is usually a fee for group outings.
Consider the Types of Care Offered
Right now, your parents may not need much help, but that could change as they age. Some assisted living communities also have dementia care neighborhoods for residents who develop dementia. This avoids the stress of finding and moving to a new community when your parents have made friends and settled in the first one.
Find One That’s Reputable
Ask your parents’ doctors for recommendations. Talk to friends who have loved ones in assisted living. When you’ve heard a few suggestions, it becomes easier to research communities online. Be sure to read reviews written by families of residents, as well as employees. Be wary of “best of” websites that are really paid ads.
Find One That Matches Your Parents’ Interests
Do they enjoy swimming? Find an assisted living community with a pool.
Are they interested in taking up yoga? Assisted living communities offer a wide range of activities that are designed to help residents stay fit.
Do they like to get out and about? Many Georgia assisted living communities take residents on day trips to nearby locations, as well as to attractions in Atlanta.
Find One That Feels Like Home
Don’t rely on glossy brochures or fancy websites. Many quality facilities have a clean, modern look resembling that of a luxurious hotel, but your parents need to visit in person at least once to get a feel for the place. You should go with them to give them a second opinion.
While there, see if the residents are engaged in activities and enjoying themselves. Are the staff members friendly and welcoming?
Stay for lunch to find out if you like the food they serve. Also, notice how the residents interact during the meal.
Finding a place that is within a manageable budget and offers excellent amenities and social programs can mean years of quality living for your parents. You will likely feel better too, knowing that your parents are well cared for in a safe environment.
Be sure to keep your parents as involved as possible in the decision-making process. A little planning and plenty of family engagement will ensure the best outcome for them.
Arbor Terrace of Burnt Hickory, known for providing quality care in Marietta, Georgia, could be the right place for your parents to call home. To visit Arbor Terrace of Burnt Hickory and see this for yourself, call 770-691-0050 and arrange a tour.
