Whether you are choosing an assisted living facility for yourself or for a family member, you are looking for somewhere that meets medical and safety requirements, but at the same time addresses lifestyle and budgetary needs as well. Assisted living facilities aren't nursing homes, where the primary function is to provide medical care. Assisted living facilities are a place where seniors can live active, vibrant lifestyles under supervision. Think of it as a dorm for seniors. According to the Virginia Health Care Associations, assisted living facilities are self-pay and can cost between $2,100 to $3,300 per month.
Look for Advice
The best way to find out if an assisted living facility has what you are looking for is to talk about it. If you are a senior citizen looking for an assisted living facility, ask around. You have a vast knowledge base in your friends and social circle. If you are looking to find an assisted living facility for a family member, ask your peers to see who has had experience in doing so. Once you get to the facility, talk to the staff and the residents to get a complete view of what really goes on.
Safety
Residents of the Village at Gordon House in Gordonsville, Virginia, have access to on-site physicians as well as lab and pharmacy services. One of the main reasons that people choose assisted living facilities is to provide a safe environment. When looking at the facility, look into the education and expertise of the staff, and check to see the well-being of the other residents. For example, each home in Brandermill Woods in Richmond, Virginia, includes a security system, smoke detectors, an emergency alarm system and a full sprinkler system.
Lifestyle
At the Sunrise Senior Living facility in Charlottesville, Virginia, residents are up to their eyeballs in daily activities--from bridge clubs to Bible study to drawing classes to massages. The role of the assisted living facility is to make members feel at least as active, if not more active, than they are at home. Check the activities, technology and engagement of the staff to make sure that residents have the opportunity to keep their minds sharp and spend time with others. You can probably discuss this with the activities coordinator on-site. At Spring Hills Mount Vernon in northern Virginia, residents can take advantage of a 24-hour concierge service, scheduled shopping trips and fitness classes.
Budget
While budget is extremely important, you don't want to sacrifice the safety and well-being of yourself or your family member in order to save money. Finding a place where senior citizens thrive is a great gift to give.
Looking for Guidance
It is certainly overwhelming to try to evaluate all of the assisted living facilities that meet your needs. The Virginia Department of Social Services and the Virginia Health Care Association provide guidance. In addition, AARP provides real-life examples and guidance on finding appropriate living arrangements for seniors.
