We've seen many families struggle on their path to find the perfect fit for their loved ones. Adult children or spouses often realize the need for extra support but find it difficult to determine exactly what type of care makes the most sense. Selecting the right senior living community is important because it affects your loved one's well-being, happiness, and health. A suitable environment can provide them with the necessary care while allowing them to maintain their dignity and independence. Conversely, a choice that doesn't align with your family's goals may lead to dissatisfaction, increased health risks, and additional stress for your family.
Common Questions from Families:
- "When driving becomes a struggle, is it time for my wife to turn in the keys?"
- "If Mom had a fall, will home health stop by once a day, or should she have 24-hour care?"
- "Dad's forgetting to take his medicine and pay the bills. Is it time to consider a Memory Care community?"
Difficulty with Daily Tasks
If your loved one struggles with everyday activities like cooking, cleaning, or taking medication, it may be time to consider a senior living community where they can receive the necessary assistance.
Increasing Health Concerns
Frequent hospital visits, deteriorating chronic conditions such as heart disease or diabetes, noticeable weight loss, increased forgetfulness, or a general decline in overall health are all potential signs your loved one might benefit from the continuous care provided in a senior living community.
Social Isolation
Loneliness and isolation can lead to conditions like depression and other health issues. Moving to a senior living community provides daily opportunities to have social time with others. The opportunity to engage in regular social activities, connect with peers, and form meaningful relationships can help combat feelings of loneliness and enhance their quality of life.
Explore the Activities Calendars at Commonwealth Senior Living at the Eastern Shore
If you and your family are considering senior living, it can be difficult to decide which community will be the best fit. We've partnered with the decision-making experts at Roobrik to provide families with an anonymous online assessment. The assessment has 23 questions and advises families to think through their situation and what challenges their loved one may be experiencing.
We highly encourage visiting communities in person when planning for senior living. Being able to talk to people who are already living in the community and hearing their experiences can be invaluable. You may have a list of questions prepared to ask, but feel free to also use our Checklist for Visiting Communities.
Request a Checklist for Visiting Communities at the Community Nearest Me
Benefits of Professional Care Assessments
With over 20 years of experience helping families in their senior living journeys, we understand the value of providing personalized care to all residents. Our communities' Resident Care Directors conduct comprehensive care assessments to determine the appropriate level of care needed before move-in day. These assessments consider factors like medical needs, mobility limitations, and personal preferences and are performed periodically to ensure our residents remain safe. Our goal is to provide residents with all the support they need, while also helping them maintain their independence.
Personalized Care Plans
By conducting these assessments, our teams can effectively identify and address your loved one's concerns, ensuring that they receive tailored support that meets their individual needs and preferences. This personalized approach not only enhances the quality of care they receive but also fosters a sense of trust and comfort in the caregiving process.
Peace of Mind
Having the reassurance that a professional has thoroughly assessed and understood your loved one can provide peace of mind and confidence throughout the decision-making journey. This expert evaluation not only validates your choices but also ensures your loved one's needs are genuinely prioritized.
The Role of Family in the Transition Process
Open Communication
Maintain open and honest communication with your loved one about their needs and preferences. By actively involving them in the decision-making process, you not only show respect for their independence but also foster a sense of empowerment and collaboration. This inclusive approach can lead to a deeper understanding of their desires and ultimately enhance the overall quality of care and support provided.
Emotional Support
Moving to a senior living community marks a significant life change for individuals. The emotional impact can vary from excitement for a new chapter to apprehension about the unknown. It's important to offer consistent emotional support, understanding, and reassurance during this adjustment period. Engaging in open conversations, reminiscing about fond memories, and staying connected as much as possible can help ease the transition.
Regular Visits
Regular visits from family members play a crucial role in helping your loved one adjust to their new environment while maintaining a sense of connection. At our communities, we go the extra mile to ensure these visits are special by hosting monthly Family Nights. These events are thoughtfully planned and arranged by our dedicated Resident Programs teams. We highly encourage more frequent visits whenever possible, as they contribute significantly to the well-being and happiness of our residents.
Success Stories from Families
Choosing the right senior living community for your loved one is a big decision requiring careful consideration. By understanding the signs that it may be time and asking the right questions, you can make an informed choice that ensures your loved one receives the care they deserve. Remember, you don't have to make this decision alone - we're here to help.