Making the choice to move to assisted living is a significant step forward. It’s an incredible way to help your loved one get the care they need while staying independent in their day-to-day life. In assisted living, your loved one can enjoy easy access to professional care, on-site amenities, and more—but what are the requirements to move to assisted living?

Typically, a person planning to move to assisted living must be over the age of 60. They must be physically and cognitively stable without needing advanced or complex medical care, and should need some help with their daily activities to maintain their quality of life.

What Is Assisted Living?

Assisted living communities exist to help older adults with some day-to-day tasks and promote independence and autonomy where possible. These communities create a customized care plan for each resident to ensure  their unique needs are addressed; whether your loved one needs help with bathing, personal grooming, housekeeping, or any other activity of daily living, assisted living can help.

This care is provided in a home-style setting within a larger community. The community’s on-site teams support your loved one whenever they can to help promote a sense of personal autonomy and independence. It’s not just about care, though; assisted living communities also offer easy access to a wide range of services and experiences designed to make every day interesting.

From hobby groups to art classes, therapy programs to on-site salons, and all kinds of other unique amenities, there’s always something new occurring. Assisted living offers a dignified lifestyle full of convenience, love, and care to your loved one. It’s an incredible way to support an older loved one in need.

Who Qualifies for Assisted Living?

Assisted living is extremely beneficial for older adults who value their independence but don’t want to put their overall well-being at risk. Typically, a person considering assisted living should:

• Be over the age of 60
• In need of some assistance with their daily activities
• Want easy access to social opportunities
• Prefer a safe and supportive environment
• Be physically and cognitively stable

However, remember that these communities put a strong focus on personal autonomy. Your loved one should be able to safely navigate their home environment without being at risk of harm. Potential residents shouldn’t require around-the-clock monitoring and care.

It’s also important to note that assisted living communities aren’t designed to offer 24/7 advanced medical care. While they can often help in case of an emergency, and while they can offer support with minor medical problems, they may not be capable of providing intensive healthcare services. If your loved one is experiencing a chronic medical condition or cognitive decline, an alternative form of senior living may be recommended, like skilled nursing or memory care.

How to Tell if It’s Time for Assisted Living

If you think a loved one could benefit from a move to assisted living, start by assessing their needs. Observe their daily routine and try to identify areas where they might be struggling, like when cleaning, cooking, or dressing themselves. Keep an eye out for challenges that your loved one might be facing, like:

• Changing weight that may indicate difficulty with nutrition or meal preparation.
• Difficulty managing medical appointments or medications properly.
• Increased forgetfulness regarding daily tasks or scheduled events.
• Signs of stress or frustration with daily challenges that used to be manageable.
• A lack of interest in engaging in social activities or hobbies they once enjoyed.

Once you’ve identified these areas of need, it’s crucial to have an open conversation with your loved one. Talk about their feelings and preferences, and make sure to ask what they need to maintain their quality of life. The decision to move to assisted living may be overwhelming at first, but with the right support system in place, your loved one can seamlessly transition to their new home and enjoy a higher quality of life.

How to Choose the Right Assisted Living Community

Any move can be a big deal, so it’s crucial that you’re prepared. No two communities are alike, so you need to make an informed choice regarding your loved one’s future home.

First, make sure to include your loved one in the decision. Take the time to create a list of their preferences and must-haves in a community, and use that as your guide when researching different assisted living options. Some things to consider include:

• Location: Do they want to stay close to family or friends? Would they prefer a rural or urban setting?
• Services and amenities: Make sure the community offers services and amenities that align with your loved one’s needs and interests.
• Staff qualifications and training: Ensure the staff at the community are trained and qualified to provide care for your loved one.
• Cost: Make sure you understand all costs associated with each community before making a decision. A transparent fee structure is key to avoiding any unwanted financial surprises.
• Reputation: Read reviews, talk to current residents, and visit the community in person to see what life would be like for your loved one.

It’s never a bad idea to be prepared, and with this information, you can make the right choice for your loved one.

The Right Community for Your Loved One’s Needs

Choosing an assisted living community is the first step towards improving your loved one’s quality of life. At Ralston Creek Neighborhood, our team is ready to help. In our community, your loved one can enjoy life each and every day while being supported by our team of loving and supportive caregivers. We’re here to help, so schedule your visit today!