There is a huge variation among assisted living facilities. While this can make the process of choosing one seem daunting, you have a good chance of finding something perfectly suited to your preferences and needs.
As you start your search, try not to get overwhelmed. Remember, amenities matter much less than the residents and staff. You can tell a lot about a facility by the people who live and work there. You want someplace with an active social atmosphere, where the residents are friendly and the staff is caring and warm…a place where you will fit in and develop new relationships.
Staff:
• Do they take time to speak with you or does it feel rushed?
• Do they appear genuinely interested in you?
• Do they interact warmly with current residents?
• How do they handle emergencies?
Residents:
• Do they appear happy?
• Do they enjoy interacting with one another?
• Do they seem like people you’d enjoy getting to know?
• Are there activities on site that look interesting?
Any move is an adjustment. In addition to a new living environment, you’ll be meeting new people. This can feel stressful in the beginning, but there are things you can do to make the transition easier.
• Pack well in advance of the move. Don’t add to the stress of the actual move by putting yourself in a position where you’ll need to make hasty decisions.
• Know what to expect. Read all the materials before you move in and make sure all of your questions are answered ahead of time.
• Stay busy. You may be tempted to stay in your apartment, but you’ll feel comfortable more quickly if you get out there to meet the residents, participate in activities, and explore the facility.
• Go easy on yourself. Everyone adjusts to change differently. If you feel like it’s taking longer than it should to adjust, talk to your family or a friend, or even the Director of the facility.
For more information on Assisted Living options, please contact Summerhill Villa at 661-254-9933. www.mbkseniorliving.com.