How To Get Your Parents Into Assisted Living
The Auberge at Aspen Park
For more information about the author, click to view their website: The Auberge at Aspen Park
Jul 14, 2021
Utah - Utah
The decision to move a parent into an assisted living community can be hard for any family, but the process is made much easier by keeping some basic steps in mind -- starting with an open conversation
Maybe you've recently noticed that your mother or fathers health has started to decline. As a son or daughter, the idea alone is enough to make your heart break. As children, we all hold in common the belief that our parents will live forever. As we get older, we come closer to the inevitable truth that, at some point, we may have to entrust the care of our senior parents to someone other than ourselves.
Its an unenviable position. The first thing to remember other than taking a deep breath is that you are not alone. Not by a long shot. According to statistics published by the National Center for Assisted Living, as of 2020, more than 800,000 Americans 93 percent of which are 65 or older live in an assisted living community. Thats a lot of discussions adult children are having with their aging parents similar to the one you may be contemplating right now. Talking to your mother or father (or both) about their declining health should at least kick start the conversation of them benefitting from a higher, more comprehensive level of care than what you are qualified or able to provide.
The conversation wont be easy, but were here to make it as stress-free as possible.
Start With An Open, Honest Conversation With Your Parents About Assisted Living
Reaching a consensus that the best possible situation for your aging parent or parents is an assisted living community requires clear lines of communication. Start this process by finding a quiet place, one free of distractions, to have a frank discussion with your parents that will allow you to clearly make your concerns known.If you have siblings, have them present. Maybe you want to bring in additional family members so they can also reflect your concerns
Calmly let them know exactly how youre feeling and why youre having the conversation, but also be prepared for some resistance, even if youre confident they will be open to the idea of long-term care.
As is the case with any fruitful conversation, its important to articulate your case and then listen. Write down the potential worries or fears your elderly parent has about moving out of the house and into an unfamiliar environment. This not only lets them know that the discussion is a two-way street, but you can use your notes down the line to potentially qualify some senior living communities over others.
Ultimately, youre a son or daughter first, of course, but your secondary role should be one of an advocate.
Assess Level Of Care To Determine Cost
What level of care does your parent require?
Has the decline in health translated into a need for help with dressing, bathing, or grooming? These activities of daily living commonly referred to as ADLs typically serve as the industry standard to determine whether senior care is best administered in an assisted living setting or a community that provides more of an independent living lifestyle, in which residents enjoy autonomy with little to no supervision from staff.
Are there any cognitive functions that need to be monitored?
If your parent has been diagnosed with memory impairment, such as Alzheimers or another form of dementia, an assisted living community which has staff who are specifically certified to provide full-time memory care will be well worth the additional cost. This level of care would be similar to a nursing home or skilled nursing community, where caregivers are available 24 hours a day. The rule of thumb is, the more intensive the medical care, the higher the price for the community. And bear in mind that your assessment does not have to be perfect. As we will cover in the next section, there are professionals out there more than willing to help you accurately assess your situation to determine the right level of care and transition into talks about payment, of which there are many options, fortunately.
Please see our assisted living payment guide for more information on the various ways you can pay for your parents long-term care.
Enlist The Help Of A Senior Living Advisor
Sometimes referred to as a senior care advisor or consultant or elder care advisor, this individual exists to play a pivotal role in the selection of the community that will ultimately administer the proper amount of care to your elderly parent or loved one.
The primary responsibility of a senior living advisor is to guide individuals and their families through the painstaking and often tedious process of identifying and securing the best possible senior living situation according to needs and budget.
Its also important to note that these advisors work for independent advisory firms, meaning they are beholden to no one community or network of communities, thus eliminating all conflicts of interest that could allow prejudice to seep into the decision-making process.
Below is a brief list of some of the questions youll want to entrust to a senior living advisor:
How much do various assisted living options cost?
What forms of financing/payment are available for long-term care services?
What senior living community options are near my location?
Do any additional care options need to be considered?
How do you ensure the safety of senior living communities?
Visit A Community Before Making A Financial Commitment
Any time you move into a new home, you first take a tour, right?
You inspect the sturdiness of the walls and floors, test the electrical, water, and gas connections, and aimlessly walk around to see if this new environment is somewhere you could see yourself for the foreseeable future.
An assisted living community should be no different. This is your parents new home. This is where theyll be meeting new friends and making new memories. Its walls will be vital to their well-being for a number of years. Most importantly, it should fit your parents needs. The transition of downsizing from the place your loved one has called home for decades to a place completely foreign requires some warming up to. Gather brochures from a handful of communities. Browse photo galleries on community websites together. Schedule COVID-era virtual tours of those communities atop your short list, and when youre able, choose a small handful that make your even shorter list for in-person tours.
Seeing a community up-close and meeting its staff will not only give you peace of mind, it will make the idea of transition completely less intimidating for your loved one.
Prepare For The Transition
Youve had the all-important sit-down. Everyone is on-board with assisted living. The senior care advisor has guided you to the perfect landing spot, and your multiple tours of the retirement community have only reinforced your confidence. Move-in day for your loved one is fast approaching, and so the final planning steps are all thats left.
Heres a small checklist of items youll want to cross off to make sure everything is buttoned up in time for the big day:
Determine what possessions need to make the trip or be left behind/donated
Hire a moving service (off-peak prices tend be offered during autumn months)
Organize important financial and health documentation that include the following
Bank account information
Tax returns
Pension documents
Deeds to all owned properties
Titles to all vehicles
Records of all loans and debts
Power of attorney
Personal medical history
Living will
Insurance ID cards (major medical, Medicare, Medicaid)
In the end, when it comes to transitioning your loved one from home to an assisted living community for long-term care, the goal is to make sure everyone is happy with the decision and feels good about what the future has in store.
- To view the original version of this article visit aubergeaspenpark.com/
- Seniors Blue Book was not involved in the creation of this content.
Other Articles You May Like
Exploring Assisted Living; A Guide to Its Inner Workings
Assisted living has gained popularity among adults looking for a blend of independence and care. Having a grasp of how assisted living functions can empower individuals and families to make informed choices regarding this form of support. This article will explain the elements of assisted living covering the services provided the financial structure and how Seniors Blue Book can act as a valuable resource for exploring assisted living options. Defining Assisted LivingAssisted living serves as a choice for seniors requiring some aid with activities but desiring to uphold their independence. These facilities offer a nurturing setting with access to care services, social engagements and amenities aimed at enriching residents lives.Range of ServicesAssisted living communities deliver an array of services customized to cater to residents specific needs. These services may include: Personal Care Assistance; Support with activities like bathing, dressing, grooming and toileting. Medication Management; Assistance with medication schedules and administration. Healthcare Oversight; Health monitoring and coordination of care.Dining Services; Well balanced meals prepared on site along with provisions, for dietary preferences or restrictions.Housekeeping and Laundry; We offer housekeeping and laundry services to ensure your living space stays clean and comfortable. Social and Recreational Activities; Enjoy a variety of activities and outings that focus on socializing staying active and keeping your mind engaged.Transportation Services; We provide scheduled transportation, for appointments shopping trips and outings to make sure you can get where you need to go.24 Hour Staff Availability; Our staff is available around the clock for emergencies. Any assistance you may require. Cost StructureThe cost of assisted living can vary based on factors like location, size of living quarters and the level of care needed. Typically the cost covers room and board care services as amenities. Some places might have pricing tiers depending on the residents care needs.How Assisted Living Works (example community) Assessment; Before moving in residents undergo an assessment to understand their care needs and preferences. This helps us create a care plan for each resident.Move In; Once the assessment is done and a care plan is in place residents can move into our facility. Each resident usually has their semi private space, within our community.Care Services; Our facility provides the care services outlined in each residents personalized care plan. Staff members are always, on hand to assist residents with whatever they need.Social Activities; Assisted living communities provide a range of events and services to keep residents engaged and active. These activities might include group outings, fitness classes and arts and crafts sessions.Health Monitoring; Assisted living facilities keep track of residents health status and organize care as required. This could involve check ups, managing medications. Helping with doctor appointments.Family Engagement; Families are encouraged to participate in the care of their loved ones at assisted living facilities. Many places offer opportunities for families to visit and join in activities with the residents. How Seniors Blue Book Can Be HelpfulSeniors Blue Book serves as a resource guide for individuals and families exploring living options. Here's how Seniors Blue Book can be beneficial:Detailed Directory; Seniors Blue Book provides a listing of living facilities offering detailed information, about services, amenities, pricing and contact details. This resource can assist individuals and families in finding a facility that suits their needs and budget. We currently have 28 Seniors Blue Book markets with custom editions (semi-annual or annual). Expert Advice; Seniors Blue Book offers expert advice and resources to help individuals and families navigate the process of selecting an assisted living facility. Their team of professionals can offer recommendations based on preferences and requirements.Seniors Blue Book provides materials and articles covering aspects of assisted living, such, as caregiving, legal and financial planning and the transition to assisted living. These resources are valuable for individuals and families seeking guidance in making informed choices regarding living care.**To sum up, assisted living is a housing alternative for seniors requiring some support with activities while aiming to retain their independence. Assisted living communities offer a variety of services and amenities to improve residents quality of life. Seniors Blue Book serves as a resource tool offering information and assistance to aid individuals and families in navigating the selection process for an assisted living facility.
Determining Who is Eligible for Assisted Living | An In Depth Guide
Assisted living facilities are ideal for adults who need support with tasks while still valuing their independence. It's crucial to understand the qualifications for assisted living if you or your family are considering this option. This article discusses the eligibility criteria, the evaluation process, and how Seniors Blue Book can be a resource in navigating this decision.Qualifying for Assisted LivingFunctional Challenges; Those struggling with activities like bathing, dressing, using the restroom, moving around, and eating may meet the requirements for assisted living. These challenges can stem from aging, disabilities, illnesses or injuries. Healthcare Needs; Older adults in need of help with managing medications, monitoring health conditions, and coordinating care could also be eligible for assisted living. Healthcare professionals typically assess these needs.Safety Considerations; Individuals facing risks of falls, accidents or safety concerns due to cognitive limitations may find comfort in the safety measures provided by assisted living facilities.Social Isolation; Elderly individuals who experience loneliness and could find value in the connections provided by assisted living communities may also be eligible for these services. The Evaluation ProcessThe assessment process in assisted living typically includes looking into the persons mental capabilities, healthcare requirements, and safety considerations. This evaluation is usually carried out by a healthcare professional like a nurse or social worker. Most often, evaluation include... Physical Evaluation; Assessing the individuals capacity to carry out tasks, mobility levels and overall physical well being.Cognitive Evaluation; Examining the persons abilities, including memory retention, logical thinking and problem solving skills.Healthcare Needs Evaluation; Identifying the individuals needs like managing medications, monitoring health conditions, and organizing care.Safety Evaluation; Recognizing any safety issues such as falls or accidents to determine if the person would benefit from the safety measures offered by assisted living communities. How Seniors Blue Book Can Provide Assistance:Seniors Blue Book serves as a resource guide for individuals and families looking into different senior living options. Here are some ways Seniors Blue Book can be helpful:Extensive Directory; Seniors Blue Book presents a directory of senior living facilities with information about services offered, amenities available, pricing details, and contact information. The Seniors Blue Book is a tool for people and families looking to discover a community that suits their requirements and desires. Expert Assistance; Seniors Blue Book provides expert guidance and support to aid individuals and families in selecting an assisted living community. The SBB team of professionals can offer suggestions based on needs and preferences. Informative Materials; Seniors Blue Book features materials and articles covering aspects of assisted living, such as eligibility standards, evaluation procedures, and caregiver assistance. These resources can assist individuals and families in making informed choices regarding assisted living care. Seniors Blue Book serves as a source of information offering a range of resources to assist individuals and families in navigating the process of selecting an assisted living community that aligns with their needs and preferences.
Finding Ways to Pay for Assisted Living When Money is Tight; Innovative Solutions and Support
With the increasing expenses associated with living many people and families are confronted with the challenge of financing care when financial resources are scarce. Luckily there exist a range of solutions and support systems to assist in meeting the costs of assisted living for individuals, with limited funds. This article discusses different avenues for financing assisted living during times of constraint & highlights how Seniors Blue Book can be a valuable guide throughout this process.1. MedicaidMedicaid is a program funded by both state and federal governments that offers health coverage to individuals with incomes including coverage for long term care services like assisted living. Eligibility criteria vary by state. Generally, Medicaid requires individuals to meet income and asset thresholds to qualify for coverage of assisted living services.2. Veterans BenefitsThe U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) provides benefits to veterans and their spouses, which can help offset the expenses associated with assisted living. Programs such as the Aid and Attendance benefit aim to offer aid to veterans in need of assistance, with activities.Social Security benefits and SSI payments can provide assistance to individuals, with resources. While they may not cover the cost of living they can help alleviate some of the expenses. 3. Long Term Care Insurance Long term care insurance is specifically designed to help with the expenses associated with long term care services, such as those provided in senior living facilities. Individuals who hold insurance policies may use them to offset the costs of assisted living depending on the policy terms. Certain states offer Medicaid waiver programs that allow individuals who would otherwise need nursing home care to receive services in assisted living communities instead. These programs often have income and asset requirements. 4. Share Living If available, sharing a living residence with a roommate can be a cost option for both parties. Many facilities provide roommate matching services to help residents find roommates and reduce expenses.Seniors Blue Book serves as a resource guide for individuals and families exploring options, for assisted living arrangements. Seniors Blue Book provides a list of assisted living facilities along, with expert advice and educational materials to assist individuals and families in navigating the process of financing care for assisted living. In summary financing assisted living can pose challenges when funds are limited. There are options available to assist in covering the expenses. From Medicaid and veterans benefits to long term care insurance and shared living arrangements, there are solutions for those looking to finance assisted living without funds. Seniors Blue Book serves as a resource offering a plethora of information and assistance to help individuals and families discover the assisted living solution, for their requirements.To explore local assisted living options, their cost, services, and accommodations, please visit: https://seniorsbluebook.com/senior-housing
Local Services By This Author
The Auberge at Aspen Park
Memory Care 1430 E 4500 S, Salt Lake City, Utah, 84117The Auberge at Aspen Park is a community specifically designed to serve the needs of individuals living with Alzheimers disease, dementia and other forms of memory loss. At The Auberge, residents enjoy an active, engaging lifestyle that promotes wellness and independence. It is our goal to keep our residents linked to resources and opportunities that fulfill their needs and interests. Residents have opportunities every day to participate in a variety of life-enriching activities and events designed to stimulate the mind, body, and soul. Our talented team of dedicated and caring staff are there when you need them. Its Inspired Living Reinvented!