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Talking about assisted living care can be incredibly difficult, and although there are many resources for children looking to start the challenging conversation with their parents, the same cannot be said for proactive parents. Rather than waiting for your children to make the decision for you, we recommend that you start the conversation early so that you can make the move that you are comfortable with.
Here’s how you can do just that:
Discuss Your Preferences
There is a large number of senior living options available to you, depending on your budget and your needs and it’s important to educate your family on your preferences. Although your health may dictate the level of care you require, there are still many factors you can favor.
- Location, Location, Location: If you have lived in a specific city or neighborhood your whole life, you may want to find an assisted living community in that same area. Perhaps you’d prefer a retirement home near your family and friends so that you can maintain a healthy social life, no matter your living situation. Make those priorities clear so that your loved ones can help you find the right place for you.
- It’s All About the Amenities: Different communities maintain different amenities to appeal to most older adults. Whether your priorities lie in delicious dining options, activities and outings, or maybe even the style and design of the living quarters, there will certainly be a space to suit all your needs.
- Settling on a Space: Downsizing from a larger home into a smaller space can be a challenge. Assisted living communities often have a range of options, including studios, 1 bedrooms, 2 bedrooms, and companion suite apartments. Be honest with your family about how much room you need.
Discuss Your Finances
Talking about money can be an uncomfortable topic for many families, but it’s a very important discussion to have when it comes to assisted living care.
Although some people believe assisted living care is covered by Social Security or Medicare, the reality is that most residents pay for assisted living from personal resources, long-term care insurance, and sometimes help from loved ones. Consider the cost of your preferred retirement home and how that might fit into your budget, and communicate that clearly with your power of attorney to ensure your desires are met later in life.
Discuss Your Health
Your health will drastically impact the options you have and the level of care you’ll require. Able-bodied individuals may choose independent living communities while people with memory disorders will require more advanced care.
Be frank with your family members about your current health concerns. The more informed they are, the more you’ll all be able to prepare before it’s time to make the move.
Have you talked to your loved ones about assisted living? Start the conversation today so that you can move forward comfortably and at your own pace. For more information on our comfortable living quarters, give us a shout online or at 516 496-1505.
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