I arranged for my mother’s move to independent living facility run by religious organization. The religious connection was important to us in that it arranged for bus transportation to church on Sundays & holy days. Her new friends had like interests. Let me enumerate a few things I learned.
1. This was a buy-in with monthly fee. A monthly allowance was included for food. If you went over, no problem just added to monthly fee. If did not spend, money went to charity that picked up rent for those not able to pay.
2. There were two places to eat. Dining room with linens, table service and menu. Naturally this choice would be more expensive than grill area where you ordered from a variety of choices, cafeteria style. Nice seating with people joining others if there were empty chairs or they could choose to sit alone. If people needed help carrying trays, servers there to help, etc. Nice way to visit. Some places have assigned seating and more confining time frame.
3. Activity center arranged a wide variety of activities. Some on site and some off site with transportation arranged. Some were free and some were added expense but usually got group rates. I would ask fir sample monthly activity guide and see if these are appealing.
4. Food is very important to life. Really investigate how pleased people are and choices.
5. The one I chose had independent, assisted, rehab, and memory care facilities. Each one was more expensive but one was promised a spot. The rehab we utilized was not perfect but friends were on site snd could visit. Continuity. Compared to what others were experiencing, however, this was good.
6. I was surprised to learn that there are levels within assisted living and some independent can’t keep people who need some basic help but don’t need total assisted living. Study of these differences might be helpful.
7. This facility had on site clinic with nurse and doctors visited weekly. Really liked this. They could do lots to avoid running out to doctor offices.
8. Weekly transportation to grocery, Walmart, etc were enjoyed by many. Breaks up days. Also check if they have transportation to other places you might need, possibly for a fee. If you still drive, is there adequate parking?
9. Security doors help one feel secure. In building personal alarm buttons also helpful. Are hallways and bathrooms large enough to accommodate walkers, wheel chair, etc.? Do neighbors check on each other?
10. Are the building and apartments bright and cheery? Are there areas where people can meet and chat?
Employees make a big difference. They become friends. Having an apartment cleaned twice a month can be a lovely thing. Is there in apartment laundry or is it shared?
Lots to consider if you feel it’s a lifestyle you are ready for. Many facilities being built now. Talking to friends and residents most helpful.
I hope some of this helpful to you. Happy rearching!
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