Selecting the Ideal Senior Care Facility

By Debrah Langston

You may be asking yourself, "What exactly is assisted living?" Let me describe the types of facilities. There are many forms of assisted living and each form offers more service than others. Generally, each assisted living facility offers an apartment with a living room, bedroom, bathroom, and either limited or full kitchen facilities.

Many places have activities such as crafts, and choral groups, book discussion groups, and Broadway dance ensembles, or so they call themselves and who are we to argue with them?. Many residents make baby clothes for young mothers, and others repair clothes that can be given to the poor. One of the most fascinating events is tap dancers who two years ago couldn't walk a block without hurting. They will never compete with the Rockettes, but they will give them a run for the money. Occupational therapy is often provided to help bring someone out of a dark shell. Physical therapy may be provided or may be available.

Many families find the fact that there is medical staff readily available very comforting. Depending on the facility a doctor may be a regular visitor to check on those residents who need continuing care. This will save that often difficult trip to a private doctor. A nurse may be available for daily care and for administering medicines. The facility often has a bus that runs on a regular schedule to various nearby locations.

Medical issues may make living in a home a problem, because these can require monitoring, and frequent trips to the doctor. Emergency medical help may be a distance away. A person can fall and lay on the floor for days without being able to summon help. Using the bathroom can result in a medical emergency, but its possible that no one would know immediately.

Other concerns include: Ask how often they treat the food service area for cockroaches. Do not accept the answer that they do not have cockroaches. Ask to see the menus and determine if the meals are nutritious. If possible, visit the dining room during meal time. Contact the local health department for any information on how they view the facility. Be sure to shop around for the best facility.

About the Author:

check out: assisted living communities