When your loved one needs additional personal care in order to maintain his daily needs, seeking more help is a priority. The Assisted Living Info website explains that most assisted living facilities allow residents to have help with their basic activities of daily living. Extra support and helping hands prevent them from having to move into a nursing home and also lifts the burden of additional care from the family.
Step 1
Meet with a social worker. The Geriatric Social Work Initiative explains that geriatric social workers specialize in helping and empowering older adults to find resources available to meet their lifestyle needs. You can locate a social worker through community service agencies or private practice. A social worker will help your loved one find an assisted living facility that meets his needs. Social workers have access to facility contacts and can determine eligibility requirements and availability options that will meet the needs of your loved one's lifestyle.
Step 2
Set up an appointment to tour the facility grounds. Once your social worker or you find an opening in an assisted living facility, tour the grounds so that you can see if it somewhere your loved one will feel comfortable. Look for a location that is private yet easily accessible to activities that she enjoys. Ask to look at the different floor plans available. If you are still a caregiver in her life, make sure the facility is close to where you live, so you don't have to travel a long distance.
Step 3
Ask about all of the services offered. Assisted living facilities offer secluded apartment-like rooms. Make sure that the facility offers options that your loved one will use, such as a dinner area, library, pool and transportation services. Additional personal care help is generally offered, such as bathing assistance, physical therapy, 24-hour nurse or home health aide on call, prescription delivery, housekeeping, laundry services, errand running and meal delivery.
Step 4
Discuss payment options. It is important to know the exact cost of living for placing your loved one in the facility before he moves in. Basic rooms with minimal services will be significantly less than a more spacious room with around-the-clock specialty services. Most assisted living facilities are paid for out of pocket and can average between $1,500 and $3,500 per month, explains Care Pathways. Some private insurance companies might pay for part of the expenses, so check with your loved one's health insurance company.
Step 5
Inquire about rules and regulations. It is important to adhere to the rules and regulations of the facility. If your loved one has pets, be sure to ask about the rules regarding pets living with residents. If your loved one has special needs or medical equipment, make sure the facility will accommodate his needs.
Tips and Warnings
- Keep in mind that many units within assisted living might be on a waiting list. Assisted living units are similar to apartments and are generally unfurnished.
