Choosing a Senior Housing Faiclity or Care Option - A Step by Step Matching Process

Step 1? Evaluate the Needs, Desires and Resources of the Prospective Resident.

Needs ?You might begin by referring to the various levels of care offered in the marketplace and see where your needs fall in this range between fully independent living and round-the-clock skilled nursing. Another factor is deciding when a move is necessary or desirable.

Desires ?An important first consideration is where you want your needs met. You may want to stay in your current home and have a variety of home services delivered there. Or you may choose to move to a facility. Then you must decide if the facility should be near the current residence or close to the home of a family member. Do you want a large campus-style facility, or a residential-type home that more closely mimics the current residence? Would you prefer a facility operated by a particular religious or fraternal organization? Is a particular climate important? And so on.

Resources ?Determine how much income and other resources, such as savings, investments, or the sale of a residence, can be devoted to home care or a senior residence. Generally speaking, Medicare covers only a small percentage of those who require intense nursing or home health care services. In most cases, expenses will be covered by the individual or by Medicare, if the person qualifies and is unable to pay the full cost. Costs for independent and assisted living facilities are almost always the responsibility on the individual. You may wish to consult an attorney or financial planner prior to making senior housing and care decisions.

Step 2—Evaluate Your Housing and Care Options.

The country’s best senior housing and care evaluation tool is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and free of charge at http://www.NewLifeStyles.com. Search for a facility that meets your criteria, or order one of our print guides. Talk at length to the admissions coordinators at all the facilities that match your criteria. Information on accreditation and inspection reports are available there for many facilities, along with links to a wide array of organizations and information sources on topics relating to senior care options.

Step 3—FINALLY, and Very Importantly, VISIT Your Top Candidates.

If possible, schedule a visit and then return later unannounced. Other articles in New LifeStyles and on our web site will help you determine what to look for and what questions to ask. And if you’ve found New LifeStyles helpful in making your selection, we would appreciate you mentioning that to the facilities you call and visit.