When you’re looking for senior housing, there are certain things to keep in mind to ensure you make the best choice for your family. We’ve covered some of the top things you should know to save time in your search for the right community:

1. Not all senior housing is the same. There are different types of senior care and living options (such as assisted living, independent living, senior housing, respite care, short-term stays, continued care communities, memory care, respite care, and nursing homes). The right one for your loved one will depend on the level of care needed and preferred amenities.
2. Nursing care is not always offered. Not all seniors care facilities are qualified to offer medical or nursing care. If your loved one needs nursing care, find a nursing home or qualified location that can offer around-the-clock care.
3. Not all prices are stated upfront. Many facilities will charge hidden costs or fees. Ask for a complete monthly fee, which includes all services.
4. What you like may not be what your loved one likes. If you will be choosing the facility for a parent or elderly loved one, make sure to put yourself in their shoes. Consider what they would like, rather than what you would like.
5. Think about both current and future needs. The way your loved one lives now may not be the way they are living in the near future. If their condition or health is changing (or may change soon), find a location that can care for them even after their condition has deteriorated.
6. You should inquire about the staff. The staff can make or break a location. Your loved one will want to feel safe, secure, comfortable, and well cared for by the staff. Look into things like employee retention, experience, and medical capabilities.
7. You should ask for help. This is a big, important decision to make and it can be very stressful to take this task upon yourself. Instead, rely on your family to assist with narrowing down the options to find the best place for your loved one’s needs, preferences, and finances.
8. Proximity is important, but not crucial. You’ll want to find a location that is close enough for your family to visit as often as you like. However, keep in mind that you likely won’t be visiting everyday, especially when most seniors spend a lot of time at their new community, enjoying social activities with others their age. So find a location that is close, but don’t let it be the determining factor in where your loved one will reside.
9. Nothing beats a tour. Take advantage of one of Senior Search’s online video tours to experience a facility for yourself, before scheduling a live tour. This will give you a better idea of the rooms, group areas, and community as a whole. Once you have chosen the right location, visit in person so you can get a feel for the staff, residents, and more about the amenities.
10. Stay for more than the tour. While you can get a good idea of the location from a tour, staying for an entire meal, walking around the facility on your own, or even staying overnight can really give you a better idea of how the residence is run when you aren’t around.

Contact Senior Search at 888-930-8981 if you have more questions about searching for senior housing for yourself or a loved one.