What to look for in Assisted Living

Beginning the search of looking at senior house options can be an overwhelming and emotional task, which is why we want to provide you with some helpful tools and resources that will make navigating the journey easier. You may be thinking, Is it time to move? What options do I have? What are the important things to consider? And, What is the cost going to be? 

On this page you will find some questions to ask to determine if now is the time, key questions and details to consider when looking or touring an assisted living or memory care home, an assisted living calculator worksheet that helps to breakdown the expenses that may be included, and a couple of educational articles regarding the different types of assisted living.

Is it time to move?

According to an article in U.S. News & World Report titled “When to Move from Independent Living to Assisted Living,” there are some clear signals that indicate it may be time to move, including:

• A worsening of medical conditions, an increased number of falls and overall increased frailty.
• Depression or social isolation.
• Develops multiple medical problems.
• Cognitive decline and memory loss.

Here are some additional benchmarks to look at in making the decision to move from independent living to assisted living. Download/Print PDF

How do I start the conversation?

This is often the biggest roadblock for the person looking to move, who is nervous or may be embarrassed to admit they are having issues. However, it is also hard for family and friends to work up the courage to start the conversation too.  The big thing to realize is that unless there is a significant change or safety concern, conversations of this type can be eased into.

It is important to take time to listen and identify the issues that may be of concern and talk through them and if they can be easily fixed.  Also, discuss the feelings associated with the current situation as it relates to social isolation versus social stimulation, which studies have shown to have significant impact on quality of life.  Lastly, discuss the daily house and life chores and how this might work in the current situation versus moving somewhere with assistance.

Legal Documents to Consider

During the above conversation it is also good to determine if your loved one has their Power of Attorney for Healthcare and Power of Attorney for Finances created.  In the event that a situation arises where they are not able to make medical decisions for themselves due an accident, sudden illness or cognitive decline due to memory loss this document would give the person named the ability to make health and/or financial decisions for them.

In addition, in the event your search is for a Memory Care Assisted Living home, prior to moving in you may need to have the persons Healthcare Power of Attorney and Financial Power of Attorney activated, which means two physicians or a physician and psychiatrist have determined the person can no longer make medical decisions for themselves.

What to Look for in Assisted Living or Memory Care

As the premier provider of Assisted Living and Memory Care in Wisconsin, we emphasize exceptional care and know that when it comes down to it, the quality of care and hugs given by those walking the floor will always be more important than the decorations on the wall or the interior look of a building. Because of this, we have put together a list of items that will be important to evaluate when visiting and touring a home.  Download/Print PDF 

Defining the differences in Assisted Living options 

This article will help you to evaluate the differences in assisted living options to see which one may be the right fit for you or your loved one’s needs. Download/Print PDF

Assisted Living Cost Calculator

This worksheet will help you to estimate the monthly cost of needed services. Some facilities include most amenities and services in the cost of rent, however, some may charge separately for specific services. Download/Print PDF

“It is often said that home is where your heart is. That is why Azura has been “home” to us for the past several years. It is the enormous hearts of all the staff that have made my mom’s final years such a comfort to not only her, but to dad and all of her children. We are eternally grateful for the tireless care that you provided for her. Azura was mom’s home….not just another facility. We knew the staff by name and by sharing family stories. It was truly a blessing to find such wonderful care for mom. God Bless You All!” – Mary