Searching for an assisted living community for an aging parent isn’t easy, especially if you aren’t familiar with the industry. That’s why we created the Assisted Living Toolkit. It’s designed to help families better understand what assisted living is and isn’t, along with what matters most when it comes time to make a decision. We’ll walk you through each resource in the toolkit to help you start your search.
Finally, we’ll share a few common mistakes families sometimes make. Knowing what they are and how to avoid them can also make a big difference in your search for an assisted living community that best meets your senior loved one’s needs.
Tips for Utilizing the Assisted Living Decision Toolkit
Our first suggestion is to block out some time to work your way through the toolkit. We share a lot of very detailed information, and you’ll want to make sure you can review it all. Keep pen and paper handy, too. If you make a list of questions, one of our experienced team members will be happy to answer each of them.
Here are a few tips to help you make the most of this resource:
- Benefits of assisted living: On the toolkit’s home page, you will find a slideshow outlining the most common benefits seniors reap from making a move, from nutrition and socializing to wellness programs, safety, and transportation. We provide you with a solid overview of why this type of senior care makes good sense.
- Financial matters: Let’s face it, most older adults need to stick to a budget. Many seniors mistakenly think it’s cheaper to stay at home and try to make do with whatever help family members can provide. In this article, we share the value of assisted living and suggestions for how to pay for it. Also see our Compare the Cost to Where You Live Now worksheet.
- In-person visits: When you tour an assisted living community, it’s easy to get sidetracked by looking around and meeting the staff and residents. You might forget to ask important questions. Or you may not even be sure what you should be looking for or asking. That’s why we developed this assisted living visit checklist. It shares step-by-step guidance to help you assess each community you tour.
- Answering common questions: While every family has their own set of questions, there are some common ones people often ask. In our Frequently Asked Questions section, we compiled and answered those we hear a lot. Keep in mind, however, our team members are experienced at assisting families through this process. So, if you have questions you don’t find answered here, call us or stop by. We’ll be happy to help.
- Read more: Lastly, don’t skip our Resources and Articles We’ve pulled together information ranging from tips on downsizing and selling a senior’s home to a quick video about assisted living created by the American Seniors Housing Association.
We hope this toolkit gives you the insight you need to feel confident about your search for assisted living.
Finally, we’d like to share a few of the common pitfalls associated with the search for a community for a senior loved one.
Common Mistakes in the Search for Assisted Living
When exploring your options for an assisted living community, here are a few factors adult children and family members should keep in mind:
- Don’t choose a community you would love
When you are touring senior housing communities, do your best to keep your parent’s tastes, interests and hobbies in mind, not your own. From the formality of the environment to the dining services program, ask your family member what is important to them and make those the priority.
- Involve your parent in the process
Don’t overlook how important it is to include your parent in this process whenever possible. Even if you make phone calls and conduct an initial round of tours, make sure they have a voice in the final decision.
- Consider location but don’t make it top priority
You’ve found an assisted living community that’s on your way home from work. You would be able to visit daily or every few days. While convenience for families is important, it shouldn’t be the top priority. Remember, your senior loved one needs to create a new life in assisted living filled with friends and hobbies of their own. Finding a place that reflects them is vital.
Call an ASC Community With Questions
Have a question about assisted living in Indiana? Call an ASC location near you. One of our team members will be happy to help!
