Assisted living facilities offer an intermediate level of care in a homelike setting that allows residents independent living combined with help for daily tasks they can no longer undertake, such as meal preparation and household cleaning. These facilities vary greatly in size, cost and range of services. Most feature small apartments or private rooms, common areas for socializing and optional organized activities. Choosing the right one takes time.
When
Most older people want to stay in their homes and are unlikely to admit they need help with daily living. If you see that your parent is struggling with basics like cooking or getting up and down the stairs, it may be time to consider the option of assisted living. The home environment is another important clue. If you see a significant change in cleanliness or a frequent lack of food on hand, your parent may be struggling with basic self-care activities.
Cost
Cost is a factor that causes many people to delay moving to an assisted living facility, but It's important to consider the price in context. Seniors in such facilities no longer have the expenses of running a home, such as taxes, repairs, utilities, snow removal and cleaning. They no longer pay for food and the money from the sale of the former home can generate some income. Medicare does not pay for assisted living and Medicaid provides very little assistance. Some states, however, have subsidy programs that help pay assisted living expenses for people whose income falls below a certain level.
Communication
Begin the dialogue about future housing options before you reach a crisis point. The decision should be made by the entire family and it may take time for all the siblings and the parents to agree on the appropriate solution. Older people often are more willing to talk about housing changes than their children, but they also need to preserve their dignity because they may perceive needing help as a type of failure. Stress to your parent that he can still be independent in an assisted living facility and center the discussion on your concerns about his well-being.
Selection
Selecting the right facility can be a long process and it works best if your parent participates in touring facilities. Visit more than one facility so you can compare cost and care, which vary greatly. Describe the care your parent needs and ask administrators how they will address these needs. Discuss options in the event that your parent's needs increase as time passes. Ask to join in a meal and, if possible, visit parts of the facility unescorted so you can get a sense of the atmosphere without the staff's interpretation.
Mixed Facilities
Phased care is a good option for many senior citizens. Continuing care retirement facilities offer the opportunity for fully independent living with an option to step up to assisted living and eventually to nursing home care if necessary. Some seniors find it easier to make a housing transition when they are healthy and they enjoy the companionship of others their own age who are active and interested in engaging in social activities with them. When necessary, they can make the transition to assisted living without losing friends and with less environmental disruption.
