Did you know that Americans over the age of 60 spend over half of their daily measured time alone? This comes out to about seven hours of alone time each day. Among the sample, those who lived alone averaged an even higher ten hours of alone time per day.
It can be difficult for older Americans to connect with others, especially if they’ve retired or live far from their family. This is why many older adults often look toward senior homes and neighborhoods for a stronger sense of community.
If you’re searching for senior living in Kentucky, you’re probably wondering what else to look for beyond a vibrant community of residents. How do you go about finding the perfect assisted living community for you or a loved one?
We’re here to help you out and put you on the right track. Keep reading the guide below to learn what to look for in an assisted living community.
Qualified Staff
When searching for senior living facilities, perhaps the number one thing you want to research is the staff. Different residents will require different accommodations, and the number, shift hours, and qualifications of the staff can affect the compatibility of the assisted living facility.
For example, if you or your loved one needs round-the-clock care, you’ll want to find an assisted living community that has staff onsite 24/7. On the other hand, if you’re looking for an assisted living facility with more flexibility, you’ll probably prefer a community where staff is more hands-off.
Onsite nurses and physicians are a major plus. It’s also important to ask whether the staff are capable of administering medication to residents who require assistance. A strong staff should also have experience working with residents with Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, etc.
Apartment Options
Of course, you’ll want to have a clear picture of possible apartments. Ask staff for a tour or a floorplan to get an idea of the atmosphere.
You’ll also want to ask what policies they have regarding furniture. Are the apartments already furnished? If so, how many personal pieces and belongings are guests permitted to bring when moving in?
Ideal Location
Location is often at the forefront of the mind for loved ones researching senior living communities. Typically, relatives and friends are searching for communities where they can easily visit their loved one.
The location can also greatly affect the resident’s mental wellbeing. For instance, if a resident enjoys the changing seasons, they’ll prefer senior living in Kentucky to Florida. Or, as another example, a resident may suffer from a vitamin D deficiency and thrive better in San Diego than in Seattle.
Culture
You want to ensure either you or your loved one mesh well with the existing residents. The best way to get a feel for the culture in assisted senior homes is by touring the facilities and spending time with the residents.
Get information on the activities that residents are invited to participate in. Most assisted living communities have a collection of clubs and weekly events held, along with special musical performances and community outings.
Size
The size of a facility can greatly affect the level of care quality and the socialization factor.
For some, a smaller assisted living community is preferred, as it’s often less overwhelming, especially for more reserved individuals. Small facilities also often have a lower staff to resident ratio, which may suggest more personalized and attentive care.
On the flip side, a large facility is often more staffed, which means there are more people around to assist in a pinch. A large facility can also be appealing to social butterflies who are looking for a community of like-minded people.
Short-Term Options
Perhaps you’re searching for an assisted living community only for a short-term visit. These can be beneficial for those recovering from medical procedures, along with family members who want assisted care during the absence of their usual caretaker.
These short-term stay options often serve as a nice example of everyday life in the assisted living community. These options are great for individuals who want to test out living at an assisted living community without committing right away.
Food Options
Food options are an incredibly important aspect to research as well. If the facility offers daily meals, request to attend one during a tour.
As we grow older, we become less tolerant of certain foods. If you or your loved one have any medical restrictions or allergies, it’s wise to check with the assisted living center on their meal plan flexibility.
However, not all assisted living communities feature in-house meals. If that’s the case, ask about nearby restaurants and grocery stores that residents can access.
Cost
Of course, you can’t forget to investigate the price of a spot in a senior living community. Medicaid doesn’t always consider assisted living a necessity, so it’s important to learn your state’s policies if you don’t plan to pay with your personal funds.
Additionally, many care centers have financial support services. Assisted senior living communities often also have tiered pricing, so you’re likely to find an option that aligns with your budget. It’s also wise to inquire about their billing policy, especially if a loved one will be paying for the resident’s bills.
Discover the Best Senior Living in Kentucky
It can be stressful to find the perfect assisted living community, whether you’re searching anywhere from Bardstown to Richmond to Somerset, KY. Luckily, by mapping out your needs and using the guide above, you’ll find the best facility for senior living in Kentucky for you or your loved one.
Looking for an exciting and welcoming assisted living community in Somerset, KY? Our team at Bluegrass Senior Living is committed to providing personalized care to every member of our community. Contact us to learn more about our services and incredible staff today!