Where to Begin
We are an Extension of Home
The realization that you or your loved one may require the assistance offered by a senior living community is an important one. It is also accompanied by a high degree of uncertainty. What level of care is best? What questions should I ask to find the best option? How can we afford it? If these thoughts are on your mind, don’t worry – you are not alone, and Heartfelt Residential Care is here to help. Whether or not you ultimately decide to move into one of our homes, we believe it is important for people to get the information they need to make the most informed decision possible.
Which level of care is best?
If you have decided that a transition to senior living is in your best interest or that of a loved one, you are likely discovering just how many care options or lifestyles are available and may start to feel overwhelmed. Below are some of the most common levels and the types of situations for which they are best suited.
Independent Living
This lifestyle option is for aging individuals who are able-bodied and mobile but wish to live in a setting free from isolation or the burdens of home maintenance and upkeep.
Assisted Living
This level of care is designed for individuals who wish to enjoy their retirement years with autonomy and independence but require an additional level of assistance with activities of daily living such as mobility, eating, medication management, grooming, hygiene, managing medical conditions or other similar areas.
Memory Care
Memory care is intended for people suffering from Alzheimer’s disease and similar forms of dementia. These communities often have programming designed to address dementia or slow its spread, and safety options in place to prevent wandering.
What questions should I ask to find the best option?
As you research senior living options, it can be difficult to learn more about a community beneath the surface level of what is presented through their websites and social media pages. Here are some of the best questions to ask and why to ask them.
What is your staff-to-resident ratio?
The staff-to-resident ratio represents how many residents there are per one staff member. The lower the disparity between these numbers, the better care each resident will receive as each staff member will have more time to tend to each one individually. A ratio of 1:6 is ideal.
What is the background of your ownership?
All too often, senior living communities are created for the goal of generating a profit rather than providing genuine, quality care to their residents. The ideal solution will be owned and managed by individuals with backgrounds in the medical and senior living fields because those are the people who understand the importance of quality care and know how to offer it.
What kinds of medical equipment do you have?
Medical equipment and technology are critical in helping maintain the safety and happiness of residents. Ask if there are alarms on doors, beds or chairs that can instantly alert staff to resident needs. Are these call buttons silent to all except the aides to prevent waking up other residents? Are there safety precautions like shower chairs and handrails to prevent falls? What happens if my loved one needs a higher level of care?
Can I afford senior living?
At first, the thought of paying for senior living can feel daunting or overwhelming. Fortunately, there are things you can do and resources at your disposal to make sure you can find the best care without breaking the bank.
Find an option with all-inclusive pricing.
Finding a senior living provider that offers all-inclusive pricing is important because it allows you to plan financially without any surprises. Some communities give potential residents one price, only for them to learn that this was the base price for rent, and did not include additional care options like medical attention, medication management, cable, meals or other features and amenities. This can be remedied with all-inclusive pricing.
Use the following resources to determine if you are eligible for assistance:
MI Health
Michigan’s Long Term Care Portal
MI Choice Waiver Program
Nursing Home Eligibility
MI Veterans Benefits
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