Most of us don’t want to think about the end of our lives or those of our loved ones. However, preparing ahead can help make options, including a transition to assisted living, feel less overwhelming, thus facilitating confidence and peace of mind.

Discussing options, before the decision has to be made, can also ease tension that often accompanies these important life decisions. Determining the best type of assisted care depends on the level of care needed and the individual’s preferred environment. Here are some of the factors to consider:

Facility size. Many people assume that choosing assisted living means selecting a large facility, but there are numerous options locally available from larger bustling properties to smaller, more intimate experiences. While large facilities may offer a bounty of activities and many other residents with whom to socialize, they can feel overwhelming. Smaller properties, however, may provide a more personalized level of attention and comfort some may prefer. If keeping your loved one close is more important than their social environment, there is always the possibility of receiving in-home assisted living services.

Level of care. Once the facility size is decided, it’s important to consider the level of care, comfort and engagement. Key areas to research include the staff-to-resident ratio, response times to resident needs, presence of awake staff at night, commitment to fun and wellness, staff morale and training, medication management, and the facility’s visitation policy. Additionally, evaluating the nutritional quality of meals, how they are prepared, and how mealtime is encouraged should be a top priority. The quality and appearance of food, and the celebration of mealtimes becomes even more crucial as we age into our later years.

Caretaker culture and philosophy. When transitioning into assisted living in a facility or in your own home, finding the right fit involves more than meets the eye. While an option may appear to check all the necessary boxes, the true key to happiness and success lies in the culture and philosophy of care and the company. Take time to get to know the owner or leader of the facility or company. Pay close attention to their connection with their clients and the staff, the length of staff employment and the commitment to engagement and transparency. Take time to contact existing and previous family members to discuss their experiences; did they meet or exceed expectations? Is or was their loved one happy with the
care received?

Deciding how you or your loved ones will experience the final and most significant phase of life is one of the most important decisions you will ever make. Growing older doesn’t mean compromising on quality of life or being fearful of the options. Assisted living or in-home care can provide tender loving care and meaningful experiences that enhance seniors’ lives — with happiness and a sense of security as the end result.

Joanne Pantuso is CEO and owner of Amber House Boutique Senior Living and Ambercare In-Home Services. She can be reached at [email protected] or (760) 851.4714.