There are many different types of senior living communities. Some are independent living only, while others offer higher levels of care on a single campus.
Find a community that encourages your loved one’s hobbies and interests. For example, some communities host cooking classes to keep seniors active and connected.
Also, look for a beautiful and picturesque setting. A more inviting picturesque community can help your loved one feel at home.
Location
The old real estate adage that “location is everything” also holds for senior living communities. Choosing the right location can help you narrow your options to those that are a good fit both geographically and in terms of care services.
It’s also important to consider whether your loved one will be close to family, friends, and medical facilities, as proximity to these resources can make a big difference in the quality of life. Some senior living communities also offer transportation to and from travel hubs, which can be especially helpful for seniors following their wanderlust. Be sure to ask if any of these services are included in your monthly fee. This will help you compare apples to apples.
Amenities
One of the most important aspects of senior living communities like Aviva Senior Living is the amenities available. This includes things like swimming pools, community entertainment, and dining halls. It’s also essential to find out if there is a beauty salon or barber, gardens, and other perks such as free group outings.
Residents of senior communities also want to feel connected to each other. Look for a place where neighbours wave to one another and save each other seats at the dining table. Some communities even offer passion project programs where seniors can pursue their interests and make new friends.
Finally, be sure to find out if any extra services like physical or occupational therapy and pharmacy services are available on-site. These services can help keep your loved one healthy and happy.
Community Culture
While location, building, and amenities are essential, the overall culture of a senior living community makes it feel like home. A community’s culture may even be a driving factor for deciding where you want to move to.
Culture is a set of values, beliefs, attitudes, and expectations that distinguish one group. It can also be seen as a sum of the shared products, rituals, and experiences that a community creates over time.
Visiting each prospective community to see how they shape their culture and atmosphere is an excellent way to gauge whether a place feels right for you. This includes seeing, hearing, smelling, and feeling what it is like to live there. Also, listen to your intuition.
Care Levels
It is essential to understand the different levels of care available clearly. This will help ensure that the community you choose can meet your current needs and any future needs you anticipate.
Some senior living communities offer multiple levels of care on one campus, including independent living, assisted living, and memory support. This is a great way to plan for the future and gain peace of mind knowing that you or your loved one will have all of their care needs met in a place they love.
Be sure to ask the facility if they include any meals, housekeeping services, utilities, fitness, and more in their monthly fee. This can make comparing options easier and help you stay within your budget.
Resident Reviews
Choosing senior living is a huge decision. It can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re unsure where to start or which questions to ask. That’s why it’s important to find communities that have a high level of customer satisfaction.
As you visit potential options, be sure to pay attention to the cleanliness and the ambiance. Observe how residents interact with team members and each other and whether the community feels friendly and welcoming. You should also note any solid odors and ensure that the apartments are large enough for any equipment you or your loved one may need to use in the future (like a walker or wheelchair). In-person visits are crucial, but virtual tours can be a great way to understand what life will be like in the community.