As our loved ones age, ensuring they receive the utmost care and support becomes a top priority. Navigating the world of elderly care options can be daunting, with various types available to suit different needs and preferences.
Assisted living facilities stand out as a popular choice for those who require some level of assistance with daily activities but still wish to maintain a degree of independence.
But what assisted living amenities should you be looking for when you're trying to choose facilities? We're here to help.
Read on to learn what features you should look for when you're exploring assisted living facilities for elderly care.
At the outset, facilities perform a thorough assessment of the resident's physical, emotional, cognitive, and social needs. This assessment also considers personal preferences, life history, and hobbies, which are crucial for crafting a plan that feels personalized and respectful.
It's often developed in collaboration with the resident, their family members, and healthcare professionals. That helps ensure all perspectives and needs are considered.
This collaborative approach helps in tailoring the care to the individual's preferences and requirements.
Effective care plans are transparent. They include clear documentation that is accessible to the care team and family members. Regular updates and open lines of communication keep everyone informed about the resident's progress and any issues that may arise.
Top facilities incorporate a comprehensive set of security measures to ensure the safety and well-being of residents.
The use of CCTV cameras in common areas and around the perimeter of the facility helps deter unauthorized access and monitor activities without infringing on residents' privacy.
Ensuring that all areas, especially walkways, corridors, and outdoor spaces, are well-lit reduces the risk of accidents. Regular maintenance checks help identify and fix potential safety hazards like loose carpeting or wet floors.
Top facilities implement strict visitor management policies. That helps them track who enters and exits the facility. Visitors may be required to sign in and out and wear badges during their visits. This helps maintain a secure environment.
Top facilities offer a wide range of activities to connect with the many different interests and abilities of residents. These may include arts and crafts, book clubs, cooking classes, gardening, music and dance sessions, movie nights, and more.
Regularly scheduled exercise classes are common. Popular options include yoga, tai chi, walking clubs, and water aerobics.
These programs are tailored to the fitness levels and health conditions of the residents. That helps promote physical health and mobility.
Social gatherings like themed parties, holiday celebrations, and birthday parties help maintain a sense of community and celebration within the facility. These events encourage social interaction. That's helpful for more extroverted seniors.
Depending on the location, top facilities might offer excursions to nearby attractions, picnics in local parks, or scenic drives, which are especially important for residents who enjoy the outdoors.
Modern facilities increasingly incorporate technology to keep residents connected with their families and the world. This might include classes on using computers, tablets, or smartphones, as well as virtual reality experiences that allow residents to "travel" or experience events they can no longer attend in person.
Qualified staff are the backbone of any top-tier assisted living facility. They play a critical role in the health, safety, and overall well-being of residents.
Staff should have the appropriate professional credentials and training for their roles. Continuous training programs ensure staff are up-to-date with the latest healthcare practices and emergency response techniques.
Effective communication is vital. Staff must be able to clearly convey information to residents, co-workers, and family members. They need to be able to listen to and understand the needs of the residents.
Tour local facilities, and see how you and your loved ones interact with staff in person. That will make it simpler for you to make the right choice.
Comfortable living conditions are essential. They ensure that residents of assisted living facilities feel at home and are well taken care of.
Offering both private and semi-private room options allows residents to choose according to their comfort level and financial capability. Rooms typically include personal storage, comfortable bedding, and a private bathroom.
Good assisted living facilities design their spaces to minimize noise. Too much noise can be distressing or disruptive for residents.
This includes the use of sound-absorbing materials and thoughtful placement of social areas away from living quarters.
Sufficient storage space allows residents to keep personal belongings and treasures. That's important for their comfort and sense of home.
Facilities with safe, accessible gardens or courtyards provide a significant boost to everyone's quality of life. Being able to safely enjoy the outdoors is crucial for their mental and physical well-being.
As mobility shifts as people age, having the proper support is super important in these facilities. Buildings are designed or retrofitted with wide doorways, ramps, and no-step entries to accommodate wheelchairs and walkers. This ensures that all areas are accessible to residents with mobility issues.
Top assisted living facilities provide transportation with accessible vehicles for medical appointments, shopping trips, and other activities outside the facility. This service is crucial for maintaining independence and social connections.
Facilities may offer or facilitate access to personal mobility devices. These include scooters, walkers, and wheelchairs. Staff are trained to help residents use these devices safely.
For multi-story facilities, elevators and stair lifts are essential. They ensure that residents can move freely between floors without the risk of falls or strain.
Residents have access to emergency call buttons or wearable devices. That allows them to alert staff immediately in case of a fall or other emergencies. These systems are often integrated throughout the living spaces and bathrooms.
Now that you know what features you should be looking for, you can choose the right assisted living facilities for elderly care for your loved ones' needs.
Are you looking at assisted living facilities in Shiloh, IL? Check out Addington Place of Shiloh. Our resident-focused programs are just part of what has made us the top retirement community in Shiloh. Contact us today.