Although holiday celebrations and observances may look a bit different this year due to social distancing, it’s still the perfect time for older adults and their families to discuss their current or future housing and health care needs.
Beginning the conversation may be daunting, especially for children who may feel their role in the relationship has been reversed as they have taken on increased responsibility for their aging parents. However, please keep in mind that it is far better to develop a game plan before the need arises than to
make difficult decisions in the midst of an emergency when options may be limited.
Here are a five tips to consider:
1. Begin researching in advance – before the need arises
A good place to start is to ask family, friends and valued advisors for their recommendations and help with researching retirement communities. Waiting until the need arises can often result in hastier or short-term decisions that might fail to meet your long-term needs.
2. Determine which type of senior living community will best fit your needs
It’s important to understand the different types of senior living options and the types of services and care they offer. From continuing care retirement communities (CCRCs) which require large, upfront entrance fees to “rental” communities, which offer similar services with the flexibility of a monthly fee—there is a community to fit every budget and lifestyle. Begin with a list of your preferences and needs and compare potential communities by taking into account location, specific care services, and additional onsite services such as physical therapy, amenities and activities.
3. Get to know the community
Whether you are taking a tour virtually or in person, you can begin to get a feel for a community’s amenities, services and safeguards. But it’s more than simply choosing a floor plan and supportive services—it’s also about lifestyle. Ask about a community’s fitness, art classes or other interests you may enjoy. Can you join a class virtually to test it out? A retirement community can offer the peace of mind that there is an “extended family” to help provide support and care should the need arise. Ask how the community engages with residents and their families.
4. Does a retirement community make sense financially?
When compared to the monthly expenses, delivery services, transportation costs, meal expenditures, and the upkeep of a house, many seniors have found that they actually spend less per month and gain countless additional benefits by moving to a retirement community. Take a few moments to compute what it actually costs you to live in your home and compare your present costs to the senior living community. Many communities offer a “Compare the Value Checklist” for your convenience.
5. Are the community’s supportive care services accredited?
You can learn a lot with a personalized community tour, but how do you measure the quality behind the scenes? The Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF) is an independent non-profit organization that accredits providers of senior services.
Accreditation provides you the assurance that high standards of quality care, service and safeguards are maintained. Make sure your selected community not only offers access to a comprehensive menu of licensed supportive care and services, but is also CARF-accredited.
“With a maintenance-free environment and a robust calendar of the activities, residents at The Carlisle Naples can lead a more active and engaged lifestyle,”said Executive Director Bill Diamond. “Their families also have additional peace of mind knowing there is an entire team dedicated to delivering exceptional care and services.”
Located at 6945 Carlisle Court in Naples, The Carlisle offers spacious one-and two-bedroom residences, weekly housekeeping and flat linen services, basic cable TV, all utilities except telephone, and delicious dining with daily, chef-prepared specials. The community is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF), an important distinction that provides residents with the assurance that the highest standards of quality care, services and safeguards are maintained. For more information about the community, please call 239-221-0017 or visit www.TheCarlisleNaples.com.
The Carlisle
Luxury Rental Retirement Living
6945 Carlisle Court, Naples, FL 34109
239-221-0017 . www.srgseniorliving.com