assisted living for both parents

Posted on: 12 July 2016

As your parent ages, more responsibility falls on you, as the child, to make sure that all of his needs are met. Transitioning from his home to an independent living facility or nursing home can be challenging. You'll want to make sure that it's the right move for him, and that he'll adjust well as time goes on. Here are some questions that you may want to ask before you sign him up for care.

What Type Of Medical Care Do You Provide?

If your dad has an underlying medical issue that requires medical attention, you'll have to see if the facility you have chosen will provide care. In general the rule of thumb is that:

• A skilled nursing facility provides 24-hour in-house medical and treatment.
• An independent living home offers a limited around the clock nursing staff and daily medical checks and visits.
• An assisted living is similar to independent living but offers more routine medical and nursing care depending on your parent's needs.

Asking the facility what they offer and how they can customize your dad's health and personal care should be the number one priority.

How Will We Pay For The Care?

Medical insurance can be a complex issue, especially if your dad has a primary insurance such as Medicare, as well as an additional insurance and supplemental insurance. Ask the facility what is covered and what isn't. Some independent care facilities offer package tiers that include payment plans to help you budget any extra costs. Many insurances pay the full amount of all the care, while others do not. Some of these costs will arise out-of-pocket, so be prepared.

Do You Offer Daily Activities?

Activities that engage the residents is something that is sought after as a selling point for new admissions. Activities range from:

• Outdoor walks and garden visits
• Cards and games
• Dessert socials
• Wine and beverage hour
• Arts and crafts

Each facility, including assisted living and skilled nursing homes, generally all have an activities director that spearheads these types of leisure interests.

Will He Have To Share A Room?

A huge question and concern is how much privacy your dad needs or wants. This depends on financial as well as medical needs and the overall assistance he requires. Skilled nursing rooms are often shared and it can be challenging to get a private room. Keep in mind that a semi-private or shared room may be offered at a significantly lower rate; this can help with overall costs. Assisted living units are often similar to small apartments, and are generally not shared.  Based on financial and medical need, you and your parent can decide on what he will be the most comfortable with.

While it may be a challenging transition for your parent when moving out of their home, it can also open up his life to more freedom and better daily care. Call a local nursing home or independent living facility such as Mayfair Village Retirement Community today to get your questions answered.