Choosing the right assisted living facility is one of the most important decisions you or your loved one will make. There are many factors to consider, including cost, amenities, location and staff.
It’s a good idea to visit at least three facilities before deciding. The National Center for Assisted Living recommends taking the time to tour each and talk with administrators, staff and residents.
Cost
If you are planning to move a loved one into assisted living in St Petersburg FL, it is essential to know the cost. This can vary greatly depending on the apartment’s location and size.
An assisted living facility in Florida will typically charge a monthly fee based on the care level needed. Some will use a points system (time spent caring for your loved one equals the cost).
A few facilities offer all-inclusive pricing, meaning that rent, services and other essential expenses are rolled into a single price. This allows you to plan your monthly payments more effectively.
Most families pay for assisted living with private funds, such as retirement accounts, investments and pooling other sources of income. Medicaid may also pay for assisted living, but each state has different guidelines for eligibility.
The cost of assisted living can vary widely depending on the location and level of care needed. It’s important to consider your budget and to research the costs of different facilities in your area. Some facilities may offer financial assistance or accept Medicaid, so be sure to ask about these options.
Amenities
Assisted living facilities should provide residents with an array of amenities to promote their health and social well-being. These include services like meals, laundry, housekeeping, transportation, social programs and activities.
Amenities can range from basic necessities such as meals and housekeeping to more luxurious options such as a spa or fitness center. It’s important to consider which amenities are important to you or your loved one and to make sure they are available at the facility you are considering.
Some facilities even offer on-site healthcare access. This is an essential option because it helps seniors maintain their quality of life.
Most assisted living communities to provide residents with up to three nutritious meals a day and snacks throughout the day and night. Many also offer scheduled transportation to doctor’s appointments, grocery stores and other errand locations.
A good facility should have multiple dining venues, such as a cafe or deli-style marketplace, so seniors have options for eating that fit their specific preferences. Additionally, they should have security measures to ensure resident safety and privacy.
Location
Location is crucial when choosing the right assisted living facility for you or your loved one. It’s important to consider proximity to family and whether your loved, one may want to move to a different state or town.
According to environmental epidemiology research from the University of Massachusetts Medical School, location can significantly affect people’s health. For example, people who live close to major roads or power plants are likelier to get sick than those who live in quieter neighborhoods.
When selecting an assisted living community, be sure to check out the layout of the facility. You’ll want to be comfortable and safe in your new home. Also, look at the quality of the amenities and services the facility offers. If you need clarification on what you’re looking for, ask a senior care adviser or visit several facilities to get an idea of the options available.
Staff
Assisted living is the ideal option for seniors who need more help than the family or in-home caregivers can offer. Choosing the right community can reduce stress for you and your loved one.
A good assisted living facility is designed to promote safety and comfort for its residents while offering the utmost care and services. Ideally, the staff will meet with the resident and create a care plan tailored to their needs.
This can include medication management, meals, bathing and dressing assistance, and emergency care access. In addition, the staff can help with personal care and other tasks as needed.
Assisted living facilities often partner with local physicians and other healthcare providers. It’s essential to find out what policies the assisted living community has in place when it comes to coordinating medical services.
Read more: How to improve lifestyle
