Over 818,800 Americans reside in assisted living communities, making up about 2% of seniors aged 65 and older, according to the American Health Care Association. For many families, the moment they realize their parent can no longer safely live at home can be overwhelming.
How do you find the right space for your parent when faced with so many elder care options? You want to ensure your parent is not only safe but thriving in an environment that provides them with dignity, independence, and support.
If you're facing the challenge of finding assisted living in Manitowoc, WI, this article will guide you through six essential steps that make the transition smoother and less daunting. Read on to learn how to make this important decision with confidence.
The first step to finding the right assisted living community is understanding what your parent truly needs. Take a close look at their physical, emotional, and mental health.
Are they struggling with mobility issues? Do they need help with daily tasks like:
Some seniors may also have memory issues or require assistance with getting to medical appointments. These details matter when choosing the right care for elderly parents, as each community will have varying levels of support.
Start by having an honest conversation with your parent. Talk about their expectations for the future and how they feel about transitioning to assisted living. You might discover that while they need help with certain tasks, they still value independence and want to maintain a social life.
Once you have a clear understanding of your parent's needs, the next step is to research local assisted living communities. Each community is unique, so you'll want to explore what services and amenities are available.
For example, some communities offer:
LakeHouse Manitowoc, for instance, provides everything from daily exercise classes to creative arts programs so residents can stay active and engaged.
Look for a community that aligns with your parent's interests and needs. Do they enjoy spending time outdoors? Manitowoc senior living communities with gardens and walking paths may be ideal for them.
Are they social? Consider communities with group activities like:
After narrowing down your options, schedule visits to the communities you're considering. While research is helpful, nothing compares to actually seeing the community in person.
During your visit, pay attention to how the community feels. Does it seem welcoming? Do the staff interact warmly with the residents?
The environment should feel comfortable and supportive, not sterile or impersonal. For instance, LakeHouse Manitowoc offers cozy common areas and outdoor spaces where residents can relax and socialize.
Take note of the staff-to-resident ratio and whether staff members seem attentive. Observe how residents spend their time. Are they engaged in activities, or do they seem isolated?
Make sure to ask specific questions about the programs and activities available to ensure they align with your parent's interests.
Cost is a significant factor when choosing assisted living. The price for care can vary depending on the community and the level of services your parent requires.
Make sure you fully understand the pricing structure before making a decision. Ask what is included in the monthly fee, such as meals, housekeeping, and personal care, and what may cost extra, like salon services or guest accommodations.
It's also important to align these costs with your parent's financial resources. Many families underestimate the long-term cost of care, so it's helpful to map out a realistic budget. A good conversation with the community's financial team can help clarify potential future costs and make the budget-planning process smoother.
The transition to assisted living can be emotionally challenging for both parents and their children. Preparation is key to making this shift as smooth as possible.
Start by helping your parent downsize their belongings early. Sort through items and decide together which personal treasures they'll bring to their new apartment. A few favorite photos, decorations, or mementos can go a long way in making their new space feel like home.
Additionally, setting up the apartment in a way that is familiar and comfortable can ease the transition to assisted living. This might include arranging the furniture similarly to how it was at home or bringing favorite bedding and pillows.
Emotional preparation is equally important. Talk openly about the change, and reassure your parent that this move will provide them with the care they need while still allowing them to enjoy life.
The process doesn't end once your parent has moved in. It's essential to stay involved in their life and support their well-being.
Regular visits will help your parent feel connected to their family and will also give you the opportunity to monitor their care. Ask about the activities they're participating in and ensure they are taking advantage of the community's offerings.
Keeping in close contact with the staff is another way to stay engaged. This not only builds a relationship of trust but ensures that you're kept in the loop about any changes in your parent's needs.
Encouraging them to stay active and involved in the community's programs will help them adjust more quickly. The more they participate, the more likely they are to build friendships and feel at home in their new environment. Maintaining that connection will provide ongoing support for aging parents while keeping everyone informed.
Finding assisted living in Manitowoc, WI that meets both your parent's needs and your expectations is crucial for their well-being and your peace of mind. By following these steps, you'll make the transition smoother, allowing your parent to settle into a supportive environment where they can thrive.
At LakeHouse Manitowoc, we provide a sense of family and a lifestyle that encourages independence, engagement, and personalized support. Our staff is available 24/7, and we create individualized care plans to ensure each resident feels at home. Schedule a private tour today and see firsthand why so many families trust us with their loved ones.