When you decide that it’s time to make a move into senior living, the possibilities can seem endless. From independent living to assisted living and everything in between, it can be hard to know where to begin your search. But selecting the right senior living community for your needs makes all the difference in ensuring you have an enjoyable experience and are fully supported in every way possible, so here’s your essential guide to selecting the right senior living community.
Find the Right Fit
When you’re ready to move out of your home and into a senior living community, you’ll want to know it’s the right fit for you. After all, how can you be certain that it will meet your needs and expectations? Take some time to consider where exactly you want to live, what amenities are most important, and which services would best help maintain your health and overall well-being. This way, when shopping around, you’ll have a better idea of what options will work best for you. It’s also smart to research reviews from residents who have already experienced these communities firsthand; they may even be able to offer suggestions on which community best fits their lifestyle.
Budget for the Future
Choosing a senior living community is a huge decision, so don’t rush it. When evaluating senior living communities, keep in mind that your needs and requirements change as you get older. Be sure to ask yourself what kind of care do you need now? But also consider what kind of care will you need down the road? Talk with your family about what you want from a living community, then be realistic about what you can afford.
Make sure you don’t choose a senior living community beyond your means. To make sure your money will stretch further, try to find out if you are eligible for any available financial assistance programs. Also, ask about regular promotions and additional services offered during different seasons (i.e., summer, spring, etc.) as these may help decrease cost.
Make the Most of Your Visits
When you visit a senior living community, take your time getting to know all of your options. Don’t just start in one wing of a building and work your way out, but instead, start on one side of campus and explore different sections. You’ll want to see what different buildings offer as well as what each wing has to offer. When you move from one section of campus to another, it is helpful to map out your route ahead of time so that you don’t forget about anything important that you might have missed otherwise.
Compare Agreements
Comparing community agreements and doing your homework on what you are signing with each living community can save you a lot of money in fees. Be sure to research each senior living community’s move-in fees, charges for services such as hair salon or barbershop visits, cable/satellite service, package delivery, and parking. Many loved ones end up spending thousands more than expected due to hidden fees that aren’t always detailed in an agreement. Be sure to look over all of your options before deciding where to live.
Learn What Is Included
Pricing at senior living communities can vary greatly, so it’s important to know exactly what you’re getting for your money. For example, some living communities offer just housing and meals, while others also offer amenities like transportation services. You may want to choose a senior living community that offers extra amenities, but if that means paying more than you can afford, you must compromise on your desired features.
