Things to Consider When Thinking About Assisted Living
Life consists of many passages and transformations: we begin schooling; we leave home to make lives of our own; we move in search of new opportunities; and we retire from business activity.
All of these changes in our responsibilities and roles present us with challenges which necessitate making important new decisions.
Senior citizens must take into account their own individual needs when considering options such as independent versus assisted living Illinois - such as changes in their physical functioning, their mental abilities, their life interests, their financial capabilities, and the social support available to them.
All of these factors affect what kind of place is the most appropriate and where the senior will ultimately be the most happy and content.
Because making good decisions about where a senior will live is so important, it should be planned with anticipation rather than left until a crisis occurs.
Good decisions are made when there is plenty of time to look around, ask questions, and discuss with friends and relatives the various options.
It is very important to be honest and open about what is absolutely necessary or desired; and what can be compromised on or negotiated.
Seniors used to independent retirement living might prefer smaller, home style residences which give individual care and attention; but this might be hated by another type of person.
Sometimes the presence of a pet, or the ability to continue a beloved hobby, might be the overriding factor which guides the decision-making process.
It is important to take stock of the senior's real needs and try to maintain continuity when this is possible.
Another important point to consider is the convenience of the facility's location; its visiting hours; its visiting areas; its food; recreational and religious activities available; safety and security; as well as the types of care available.
It's a good idea after taking the standard tour to drop in unexpectedly later to see if there is any difference.
Don't be afraid to return as often as necessary to get all the information you need and all of the answers to your questions.
Often there may be difficulty in finding a good balance between quality and cost.
Ask about state or federal financial assistance that might be available.
Ask what the Chicagoland assisted living facility's policy is in case the senior's savings or available funds run out.
These sorts of questions might embarrass you, but those who work in senior facilities can deal with them.
They might even be able to suggest programs which the senior can qualify for.
Also, the type or level of care which is needed can change or fluctuate; this must also be considered and inquired about.
All of these changes in our responsibilities and roles present us with challenges which necessitate making important new decisions.
Senior citizens must take into account their own individual needs when considering options such as independent versus assisted living Illinois - such as changes in their physical functioning, their mental abilities, their life interests, their financial capabilities, and the social support available to them.
All of these factors affect what kind of place is the most appropriate and where the senior will ultimately be the most happy and content.
Because making good decisions about where a senior will live is so important, it should be planned with anticipation rather than left until a crisis occurs.
Good decisions are made when there is plenty of time to look around, ask questions, and discuss with friends and relatives the various options.
It is very important to be honest and open about what is absolutely necessary or desired; and what can be compromised on or negotiated.
Seniors used to independent retirement living might prefer smaller, home style residences which give individual care and attention; but this might be hated by another type of person.
Sometimes the presence of a pet, or the ability to continue a beloved hobby, might be the overriding factor which guides the decision-making process.
It is important to take stock of the senior's real needs and try to maintain continuity when this is possible.
Another important point to consider is the convenience of the facility's location; its visiting hours; its visiting areas; its food; recreational and religious activities available; safety and security; as well as the types of care available.
It's a good idea after taking the standard tour to drop in unexpectedly later to see if there is any difference.
Don't be afraid to return as often as necessary to get all the information you need and all of the answers to your questions.
Often there may be difficulty in finding a good balance between quality and cost.
Ask about state or federal financial assistance that might be available.
Ask what the Chicagoland assisted living facility's policy is in case the senior's savings or available funds run out.
These sorts of questions might embarrass you, but those who work in senior facilities can deal with them.
They might even be able to suggest programs which the senior can qualify for.
Also, the type or level of care which is needed can change or fluctuate; this must also be considered and inquired about.
