Choosing the suitable facility requires an in-depth analysis of your parent’s care needs, budget, and lifestyle. According to the National Center for Assisted Living (NCAL), it’s a journey that starts with an honest conversation about expectations.

Personal Care

Assisted living facilities are an excellent option for older adults who need help with activities of daily living but don’t require the round-the-clock care that a nursing home offers. They offer various services, including up to three meals a day, assistance with personal care, and help with medications.

Choosing an affordable assisted living facilities Southeast Denver is a big decision that should be made with the help of a healthcare professional. They can provide a senior with a thorough assessment and develop a personalized care plan to address their needs.

Assisted living facilities typically charge monthly or annual fees that cover housing, meals, activities, and other services. They may also charge a flat rate or offer an A la carte billing option that allows residents to add services as needed.

Medication Management

If you’re the parent of an older adult, you need to know how their medications are handled. This is a critical service offered by assisted living communities that can help your loved one maintain their health and prevent medication-related adverse events.

Medication management programs often involve keeping track of the right time and route for administration and the proper dosage. They also include drug interaction prevention, allergy detection, and training for residents and care workers.

Medication management is a top priority for many administrators. They state that it’s their number-one concern in delivering resident care.

Socialization

Socialization is an essential component of a healthy lifestyle, and older adults who don’t have a lot of opportunities to socialize may be at risk for various health issues. These include depression, poor nutrition, and cognitive decline.

Assisted living facilities offer socialization activities to help seniors maintain their mental and emotional health. These include group discussion sessions, exercise classes, and games.

Seniors who participate in these activities also tend to feel happier and experience better physical health. These activities also improve their memory and reduce the onset of brain-related diseases like dementia.

In addition, assisted living facilities often have friendly community spaces for residents to hang out in and socialize with their peers. These spaces can include dining halls, party rooms, libraries, and sitting areas.

Residents can join interest-based social clubs or volunteer in the community depending on their interests. These activities often lead to more friendships and a sense of belonging.

Respite Care

Respite care provides short-term relief to caregivers who need to take a break from their duties. These breaks may include an aide visiting the senior or caregiver’s home, adult day care services, or a brief stay at an assisted living facility.

The first step in finding respite care is determining the needs of both you and your loved one. Start by writing down the times and things you need help with, then talk to your loved one about what they want.

Once you know the basics, start researching local respite care facilities and providers in your area. Find out what types of care they offer and if it’s available at an affordable rate.

It’s also a good idea to explore your options for financial support. You can contact 2-1-1 or other support groups to find out about local funding sources. Some states may have voucher programs that provide a set amount of funds every quarter to cover respite care costs.