By: Arthur Cooper
Submitted: 2010-11-24 15:15:55 | Word Count: 664
Are you looking for a San Diego senior assisted living facility? Are you sure that assisted living is right for you and your loved ones? The decision to move away from an independent lifestyle is a large one, and it should not be taken lightly. It is paramount that you understand exactly what assisted living is before making that life-changing step.
According to the Assisted Living Federation of America, assisted living is defined as a “senior living option that combines housing, support services and health care, as needed.” ALFA also has this to say about assisted living:
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“Assisted living is designed for individuals who require assistance with everyday activities such as meals, medication management or assistance, bathing, dressing and transportation.”
A common misconception about assisted living establishments is that they are nursing homes. There is a large and often unidentified difference. Nursing homes are fully supervised, 24/7 care facilities. Assisted living is designed to help the elderly transition from independent living to a lifestyle where help is available when needed. Many assisted living organizations function as retirement communities, where residents are encouraged to live their day to day lives, knowing that immediate assistance is just around the corner.
If you are seeking a San Diego senior assisted living facility, browse. Use websites to locate establishments nearby. Compare facilities, and always visit before making your final decision.
Here are ten questions you should ask yourself when determining what assisted living organization is right for you.
1. Do the residents seem content, engaged and happy?
2. How is the food? Does the dining area appeal to you?
3. Are there programs—such as movie night, water aerobics, etc—in place?
4. How does the layout of the establishment feel? Is it homey and welcoming?
5. How do you feel about the staff? Are they hospitable and friendly?
6. What is the facility’s plan for emergencies?
7. Is the facility clean and well kept?
8. Is the establishment hurried, or is there a sense of peace and calm?
9. What is the facility’s policy on residents leaving—not all assisted living establishments require residents to stay on site, such as retirement communities.
10. Finally, put yourself in someone else’s shoes. Is this somewhere you could live?
It is important to remember that transitioning from an independent lifestyle to an assisted one is difficult. There are several emotional obstacles to overcome—the feeling of losing your home, the notion that you are relinquishing your independence, the concept of aging.
Help your loved ones by personalizing their new living spaces, visiting often and valuing their feedback concerning which assisted living establishment is right for them. If you need guidance finding facilities in your area, GeriCareFinder can help. Browse facilities by city or zip code, and easily locate contact information. If you are looking for a San Diego senior assisted living facility, GeriCareFinder is a great place to start. Remember, visit several facilities, and ask yourself the aforementioned questions before making a final decision.
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