What to Look for in Assisted Living Services and Amenities?
The decision to move your aging loved one into an assisted living community is an important one. You want them to feel safe and well cared for in a society that meets their needs.
Visiting different St Petersburg assisted living facilities is essential to finding the right fit for your family and your loved one’s unique needs. Take your time during tours and ask lots of questions.
Meals
Meals are one of the most important aspects of senior care in Florida. Whether your loved one prefers to eat in the dining room or enjoys cooking their meals, it’s essential to find an assisted living community that offers what they’re looking for.
Generally, communities offer three nutritionally balanced meals per day at no additional cost to residents. A chef designs them to include seniors’ nutrients for optimal health and strength.
The food served should be a mix of protein, carbohydrates, milk and dairy products, fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and healthy oils. It should also incorporate dietary restrictions and food allergies.
Personal Care
There are many factors to consider when determining what type of personal care is best for your loved one. You want to find a place that will provide them with the comfort and home-like environment they are looking for.
The staff-to-resident ratio in each home is also a factor to look for. The higher the percentage, the more caring and attentive the staff is to each resident’s needs.
During a tour, pay close attention to how the facility is run. Does it feel clean, organized, and home-like?
An excellent personal care home will offer nutritious meals, snacks, and a variety of activities to keep your loved one busy. Ask for a copy of the menu and meal calendar.
Respite Care
Respite care is an excellent way for caregivers to take a break from their duties and maintain their well-being. It can provide a valuable boost to their mental health and prevent caregiver burnout, which can lead to chronic illness.
A caregiver can get respite care from home, a nursing facility, or a day-care center. Some services provide respite for a few hours, while others offer long-term care options that can last a week or more.
Finding a respite care provider that offers the services you need and ensures they are reputable and insured is essential. If you are unfamiliar with the service, ask as many questions as possible to provide that your loved one will be taken care of and that you won’t feel a sense of guilt for leaving them during your time away.
Transportation
Whether you live in a large or small city, transportation can be essential to age in place. Without transport, seniors are often housebound and reliant on family members to drive them around town.
Public transportation is one of the most common and convenient travel methods, particularly in big cities. Some systems are more accommodating, and some offer complementary paratransit services for disabled residents.
Another option for those who don’t qualify for paratransit or want the freedom to get to and from their destination without relying on public transportation is a private ride service. Some companies provide ambulances and wheelchair-accessible vehicles ideal for non-emergent medical transport.
Activities
Many assisted living facilities to offer various activities that help seniors remain active and engaged. These activities can reduce stress and depression, improve cognitive function and memory, and boost self-esteem.
These activities are often held in common areas or dining halls, with some facilities featuring gardens or patios for outdoor events.
Singing competitions or karaoke are great ways for residents to sing and socialize. They can be hosted by a trained singer or volunteer choir members.
Visiting a botanical garden or a live concert allows one to see flowers and other beautiful plants in their natural habitats. Learning about different cultures through literature promotes a sense of discovery. Having a lending library available for residents is another fun way to encourage reading.