Category: Making the Decision

Curious what a day in the life of a senior living resident looks like?

“It’s fabulous,” says Atria resident Barbara R.

Whether she’s chatting with neighbors in the film club or painting in her art studio, Barbara’s days are filled with friendship, fun and fulfillment.

Keep reading to learn more about Barbara’s story and what she looks forward to as a resident at Atria Bell Court Gardens in Tucson, Arizona.

What is a typical day like for you?

Barbara: My favorite thing to do here – I still go to work. I go to work every day in the art studio I rent in downtown Tucson. It’s just the most fabulous space. It’s like a miracle. It’s a 100-year-old warehouse that’s made out of brick with 20-some-foot ceilings and skylights that look like they’re in a European movie. It’s fabulous!

So I go to work, and then I come back here to Atria and meet up with this group of people who feel like family to me. And we have a dinner party – and none of us have to cook. We can talk like mad, have a glass of wine and then go back to our apartments.

Tell us about some of the senior living activities you and your friends participate in?

Barbara: We formed a film club. So, we’re seeing films from other countries every Wednesday night at 6:30. And then usually a discussion happens right after the film. Sometimes we keep talking about the film over the next couple of dinners. But basically, it’s like my ideal life. I get to paint all day and then go to a dinner party every night – that I didn’t have to design – with people I love.

What else do you and your neighbors have in common?

Barbara: These people have traveled all over the world. They all read books. They listen to the news. And they’re just kind. I mean, just the sweetest people. When friends of mine visit me, I try to make sure they meet my little Atria family, because that to me is part of the heart of the place.

The other thing is the staff. It’s like you’re on a cruise because the staff is from all over the world. I would say the pervading feeling is a sense of their kindness and wanting to help you. So basically, dinner parties every night and interacting with the people who work here who love their job.

Making decisions about the care of a parent as they age can be challenging and emotional. It’s not just about choosing a place to live; it’s about finding the right environment where they will thrive. For families trying to choose between assisted living and nursing homes, understanding the differences is crucial for finding the right care.

In this comparison, we’ll explore each option so your family can make an informed choice.

Assisted living facilities: Greater independence with the right support

Assisted living communities offer a balance of independence and support. Designed for seniors who require some daily assistance but still wish to lead an active lifestyle, these communities provide a social environment that combats loneliness in seniors and fosters physical, emotional and cognitive wellness.

A social lifestyle designed to maintain good health

Studies show that good friends are good for your health. Community living has been proven to reduce a variety of ailments, from cognitive decline and heart disease to anxiety and depression. One of the benefits of senior living communities is that they offer daily events and activities for seniors. The programs offered by a community can indicate whether or not it would be a good fit.

Personalized care

Assisted living communities respect residents’ independence while offering support for activities of daily living (ADLs), such as getting dressed, bathing and medication assistance. Care isn’t one-size-fits-all, though. Finding a community that offers a personalized approach ensures that individual care needs are met, and changes in health and well-being are noticed.

While assisted living communities don’t typically offer skilled nursing services, you may find a community that offers regular care assessments and on-site healthcare services – giving residents and their families peace of mind.

Senior living amenities and services

Amenities such as a fitness center, swimming pool and nutritious dining experiences all enhance the well-being of older adults. Entrusting daily tasks such as cooking, cleaning and household maintenance to a professional staff frees assisted living residents to enjoy life and spend more time doing things they want to do.

Nursing homes: Intensive senior care services

Nursing homes cater to individuals who require extensive 24-hour medical care for acute or chronic illnesses. These facilities are equipped with professional healthcare personnel, making them suitable for complex health conditions that cannot be self-managed or addressed in an assisted living community.

Long-term care facilities can provide for many needs and services. Understanding your family’s long-term care options will help you make a confident choice.

Full-time medical care

Skilled nursing care and professional healthcare practitioners providing round-the-clock care are the key components of nursing homes. These facilities offer a higher level of medical attention, which includes rehabilitation, intensive therapies and specialized care plans.

Structured environment

Nursing homes offer a medically oriented environment rather than the social setting you’ll find in assisted living communities. While less emphasis is placed on social events, many nursing home facilities do offer some activities.

How to choose between assisted living and a nursing home

At its core, the decision between assisted living and a nursing home comes down to the level of care required. It’s about aligning care needs with the right environment – one that not only ensures safety but also promotes a sense of belonging and happiness.

For those who benefit from daily support but don’t require round-the-clock skilled nursing care, assisted living can be the perfect solution. Thanks to the supportive environment, a short-term assisted living stay can also provide a safe place to recover following an illness or injury – before your parent returns home. Conversely, when constant medical care is the priority, a nursing home may offer the necessary resources and expertise.

If you’re not sure your parent is ready for either care option, keep in mind that the social, supportive environment found in assisted living can help maintain good health, allowing your parent to age in place. Many assisted living communities also offer independent living – with the option to add care services should needs arise.

Not sure where to start? Creating a long-term care plan will help your family prepare for changing care needs and identify available resources.

For older adults who want to maintain their independence, assisted living offers a safe and supportive environment to do just that.

Meet a few of the residents who have enjoyed a greater sense of well-being at Atria.

Jim and Rhea

Late one night, Rhea discovered her husband, Jim, lying on the kitchen floor, unable to get up. At 91, he was developing symptoms of dementia along with a heart condition that made him weak. For two years, Rhea had been her husband’s only caregiver and, at 88, she said she felt worn down.

“I had to take care of our four-bedroom house, pay the bills, deal with yard work, laundry,” Rhea said. “I was also taking care of my husband, who had just gotten out of the hospital. I had to do everything.”

Rhea knew caring for Jim on her own was no longer an option. After visiting four assisted living communities, the couple moved to Atria.

“Life here is absolutely wonderful,” said Rhea. “The staff has helped me so much by caring for my husband.”

With her husband receiving support and care services daily, Rhea feels more rested. She loves having time to read and sew, and even made Christmas gifts for the entire Atria staff. The couple also enjoys community events and gathering with neighbors.

“We’re extremely happy here,” said Rhea. “The staff is lovely, the food is good, the people are kind and generous. We are very, very content.”

Jean

After her husband passed away, Jean suffered a minor stroke. She continued living alone in her house.

When stopping by to visit, Jean’s children found her lying on the floor, unconscious. That’s when Jean’s daughter insisted her mother move across the country to be closer. They started searching for assisted living communities, and that’s when they found Atria.

“I’m so much better off than if I’d stayed in my house,” Jean said. “The support we get here is grade-A, and they make everything so fun and happy. Being here takes a lot of worry off my daughter’s mind.”

Maurine and Larry

After 55 years in their home on Long Island, Maurine and Larry needed a change. At 92, Larry had suffered a few falls and relied on a walker to get around. Maurine, 89, has balance issues and was finding it difficult to keep hauling laundry and groceries up and down stairs.

With help from their four children, the couple began looking for assisted living options. Shortly after starting the search, they found Atria, and Maurine says she and Larry are thrilled with their decision.

“I don’t have to carry bundles up the stairs anymore,” said Maurine. “They do the housekeeping, the laundry – which is great – and meals are prepared for us.”

Maurine and Larry are also improving their strength, balance and flexibility with occupational therapy sessions twice a week, and they both enjoy participating in the community’s classes and events.

“Life is a lot easier.”

Discover how empowering the right care can be at Atria Senior Living at ExploreAtriaCare.com.

Caring for a parent or older family member can be rewarding, but it can also be mentally, emotionally and physically challenging. Not to mention, there often comes a time when older adults need extra assistance following illness or surgery, or social engagement that their family caregiver is unable to provide.

For many caregivers and their families, respite care at a senior living community – also referred to as a short-term stay or short-term assisted living – is the right solution.

Here are six reasons to consider a short-term stay and respite care for seniors.

Quick Guide: Advantages of a Short-Term Stay

1. Caregiver relief

In the U.S., there are more than 40 million unpaid caregivers, nine in ten of whom are caring for an aging relative – usually a parent – which requires a commitment of time and energy that can be exhausting.

Caring for an older family member – on top of handling other daily tasks and responsibilities – can leave you frazzled and wiped out, often neglecting your own needs. Caregivers need occasional breaks to recharge and avoid caregiver burnout (also known as caregiver stress syndrome).

Symptoms of caregiver burnout include exhaustion, depression and resentment. Caregiver burnout can also result in you no longer being able to provide the level of care your family member needs.

A short-term stay allows caregivers to rest and rejuvenate for days or weeks at a time. This might mean a couple days off to attend to your personal well-being or a weeklong vacation – all while having the peace of mind that your family member is receiving the attention and support they require.

2. Recovery from illness or injury

Respite care can be an excellent option for seniors recovering from surgery, illness, hospitalization or injury. Assisted living communities provide a safe and comfortable environment for older adults until they’re ready to return home. Daily tasks like cooking meals, housekeeping and transportation are taken care of by a dedicated staff, so short-term stay guests can relax and prioritize their happiness and well-being.

Many senior living communities offer care services like medication management and assistance with bathing, grooming and getting dressed, all of which can help older adults recuperate more quickly and comfortably than they would at home. And having a team of trained professionals on-site means faster response time to any concerns or complications that may arise during recovery.

When deciding between returning home and respite care following a hospital or rehab stay, you should consider both how long recovery will take and what challenges your family member will face along the way. Safety checklists like this one can offer guidance when deciding which recovery option is the best fit for your situation.

3. Social engagement

Loneliness and social isolation can lead to major health issues for older adults, including depression, high blood pressure and cognitive decline. This can be especially true during winter when the weather makes spending time outdoors more challenging. But research suggests that socializing can improve mood and cognitive function, and it’s often associated with higher rates of exercise.

Short-term respite care at an assisted living community provides a variety of fun activities and social events to keep seniors engaged. Painting classes, book clubs, movie showings and game nights all offer seniors a chance to connect with others and form new relationships with people who share their interests – relationships that can provide lasting fulfillment and emotional support long after they no longer need short-term senior care.

4. Trial run before making the move

For seniors and caregivers considering whether or not to make the move to assisted living, a short-term stay can provide an idea of what their experience would be like. Any big life transition can seem overwhelming, but getting a preview of what day-to-day life is like in a senior living community can help ease any concerns. Daily social opportunities like craft classes, yoga and group dinners are some examples of what residents look forward to every day. A trial run can help you make a more informed decision about your family member’s future.

5. Convenience and flexibility for emergencies

Sometimes unforeseen events – a personal health emergency, another family member falling ill, a crisis at work – can suddenly require caregivers to attend to other aspects of their lives. Assisted living communities can often accommodate short-term stay guests promptly and for flexible periods of time, allowing you to focus on other concerns while knowing that your family member is in trusted hands until you’re able to resume regular caregiving duties.

6. Nutritious (and delicious) dining

Finally, senior living communities can provide a variety of meal options that many caregivers might not have the time or ability to prepare at home. Menus are designed with the health and nutritional needs of seniors in mind. Not only does this mean your family member will be receiving delicious meals during their stay, but they may also discover a new favorite dish.

Respite care can benefit everyone

For caregivers, self-care isn’t a luxury; it’s a necessity. To provide proper care for a parent or older family member, it’s important to also take care of yourself. With all the benefits and amenities assisted living communities have to offer, a short-term stay can be a positive experience for seniors and caregivers alike.

Atria Senior Living is the first senior living brand to deploy large scale, nationwide Alexa Smart Properties products. The new technology makes it easier than ever for residents to call the front desk, ask for transportation, and alert staff to a maintenance need. The devices also display curated video screens announcing upcoming Atria’s Engage Life^® events, important announcements and daily menus.

 

 

The first wave of Atria’s Alexa Smart Properties include:
Atria Newport Beach
Atria Del Sol
Atria at Foster Square
Atria La Jolla
Atria Woodbriar Place
Atria Rocklin
Atria Santa Clarita
Atria Hillcrest
Atria Valley View

Awards Determined by Top Reviews from Residents and Families

Atria is proud to announce that 49 communities have been honored with the 2023 Caring Star award – more than any other senior living provider nationwide. Of those, 19 recognize the Atria Senior Living brand, including six Caring Super Star awards. In addition to this stellar performance on Caring.com, A Place for Mom has recognized 74 Atria communities – including 47 within the Atria Senior Living brand – with the 2023 Best of Senior Living award.

Both awards are determined by the reviews of residents and their families on Caring.com and A Place for Mom – two of the leading senior living referral services.

“One of the best thank yous we can receive is when residents and families share the joy they’ve experienced in our communities,” said Sanela Graziose, Executive Senior Vice President of Sales, Marketing & Communications for Atria. “Our communities are home and much more for older adults – offering a lifestyle featuring chef-prepared meals, housekeeping service and a variety of holistic and engaging programs.”

Driven by quality

Atria holds its communities to some of the highest quality standards in the senior living industry. The Quality Enhancement program establishes a universal set of auditable guidelines to ensure consistent quality from one community to the next. Atria’s audit indicators include a variety of clinical factors for its senior living communities, along with a range of resident experience and customer service standards.

“We are very proactive when it comes to quality – we don’t wait for bad things to happen and then follow up. We try to look ahead and prevent issues,” said Sean Purser, Senior Vice President and Chief Quality Officer at Atria. “It has always made me proud to know we provide the best environment in the senior living industry. In the end, customer satisfaction and safety are two of the most important aspects we can provide to our residents.”

Winning communities

The following Atria Senior Living communities received the 2023 Caring Star award from Caring.com and/or 2023 Best of Senior Living award from A Place for Mom.

Caring Star Award

Arizona

•Atria Chandler Villas*

California
• Atria at Foster Square 
• Atria Golden Creek
• Atria Palm Desert*
• Atria San Juan 
• Atria Park of Vintage Hills*

Connecticut
• Atria Darien
• Atria Stamford

Florida
• Atria Park of St. Joseph’s*

Maine
• Atria Kennebunk*

Massachusetts
• Atria Draper Place
• Atria Woodbriar

Nevada
• Atria Summit Ridge*

New York
• Atria Rye Brook
• Atria Tanglewood

Pennsylvania
• Atria Bethlehem

Rhode Island
• Atria Bay Spring Village
• Atria Lincoln Place

Texas
• Atria Canyon Creek

 

Best of Senior Living

Arizona

•Atria Chandler Villas

•Atria Park of Sierra Pointe

California

•Atria at Foster Square

•Atria Del Rey

•Atria Del Sol

•Atria El Camino Gardens

•Atria Hacienda

•Atria La Jolla

•Atria Newport Beach

•Atria Newport Plaza

•Atria Palm Desert

•Atria San Juan

•Atria Santa Clarita

•Atria Sunnyvale

•Atria Tarzana

•Atria Willow Glen

•Atria Park of Vintage Hills

•Rancho Mirage Terrace

Connecticut
• Atria Darien
• Atria Stamford

Georgia

•Atria Park of Tucker

Illinois

•Atria at River Trail

•Atria Park of Glen Ellyn

Maine
• Atria Kennebunk

Massachusetts
• Atria Draper Place

Michigan

•Atria Kinghaven

Nevada
• Atria Summit Ridge

New Jersey

•Atria Tinton Falls

New York

•Atria Forest Hills

•Atria Glen Cove

•Atria on the Hudson

•Atria West 86

•Atria Park of Lynbrook

North Carolina

•Atria Oakridge

•Atria Southpoint Walk

Pennsylvania

•Atria at Cranberry Woods

•Atria Lafayette Hill

•Atria McCandless

Rhode Island
• Atria Lincoln Place

South Carolina

•Atria Forest Lake

Texas
• Atria Canyon Creek

•Atria Carrollton

•Atria Cinco Ranch

•Atria at Hometown

•Atria Sugar Land

•Atria Westchase

•Atria Willow Park

*Winner of Caring Super Star award, for communities who have won a Caring Star award for three or more years.

The moment has arrived – your parent made the decision to sell their home and move to a senior living community. Both of you may feel excited and relieved, but you may also feel anxiety and guilt, and your parent may feel sad, skeptical and even angry. Here are some tips to help make your parent’s transition to community living as smooth and stress-free as possible.

Our Checklist to Transitioning to Senior Living (PDF)

Prepare for the move to a senior living community

The myriad details involved in moving your parent to assisted living can seem overwhelming. Breaking things down into smaller, more manageable steps will reduce stress and simplify the process. Keep in mind, the senior living community is there to assist you every step of the way – their expertise and resources could save you significant time, money and headaches.

Write it all down – Don’t rely on scattered notes, emails and memory alone to manage important details. Get a notebook dedicated to your parent’s move and fill it with to-do lists, schedules, contact information, community apartment floor plans and anything else that will assist with the moving process.

Secure important documents – Make it easy for your parent to access important information they may need once they’ve moved into their new home by compiling it all in one safe place. Consider a fireproof box or small safe to store important documents like wills, medical records, their passport, birth certificate, Social Security card, etc.

Discuss the home sale with your parent – Before contacting a real estate professional, you may need to address the strong emotions associated with selling a family home. This guide and this blog can help with that discussion.

Consider the benefits of a real estate professional – While it may be tempting to sell the home yourself, an experienced professional can get you more exposure, sell the home faster and negotiate a better price – saving you the time and stress associated with listing and showing the house. They can also suggest smaller cosmetic renovations that could improve resale value with little investment. Ask the senior living community for real estate professional referrals.

Make downsizing uplifting – Your parent’s home is likely filled with cherished items acquired over decades. Allow ample time for them to sort through it all. Be patient and sensitive to your parent’s feelings, and keep these tips in mind:

• Get their new floor plan. This will help determine which furnishings will fit into your parent’s new home.
• Do a little every day. Sorting through mementoes can spark fond memories that evoke strong emotions. Allow time to determine what to keep, pass down to family or donate to charity – but encourage your parent to make this a daily activity so it doesn’t become overwhelming as the move-in date approaches.
• Purge paperwork. Throw out any old documents, files, newspapers and magazines that are no longer needed.
• Keep it festive. Make it a party. Put on some music, break out the wine and cheese, and invite other family members to help your parent sort through their belongings.

Take the pain out of packing – Seek estimates from at least two local moving companies and ask the senior living community for referrals. Allow ample time for packing – it typically takes much longer than most people think. Here are some more handy tips:

• Schedule family pickups. Give family members a firm schedule to collect anything your parent is handing down. Make sure any donated items are on track to be picked up or delivered to the appropriate charities – most will provide free pick-up service.
• Make a list. To make sure nothing gets lost in the shuffle, make an itemized list of everything that’s going to your parent’s new home. Be sure to note any fragile items or electronics that may require special packing.
• Manage medications. Before moving, make sure your parent has refilled their medications and, if necessary, transferred prescriptions to a pharmacy closer to the senior living community. Place all medications in a dedicated box for easy access in their new home.
• Notify others of your parent’s new address. Contact the local post office to ensure mail is delivered to your parent’s new home. If they receive Social Security or Medicare benefits, update their address online.

Make their new senior living community feel like home

The community director will show your parent the comforts and features of their new home while making sure essentials like medications, grooming tools and bathing items are within reach. Consider a housewarming gift like a recent family photo, knitted blanket, a favorite homemade dessert or crafts made by grandchildren.

Here are a few more ways you can ease their transition:

Get acquainted before moving in – A familiar face goes a long way to making one feel more relaxed and assured, so help your parent meet other residents and staff a few weeks before moving in. Accompany your parent to a meal in the community restaurant and introduce them to the chef. Visit the salon and say hello to the hairdresser. Encourage your parent to attend a social event or two to meet some of their new neighbors.

Give your parent space – You may feel tempted to visit and call your parent more frequently when they first move, but be careful not to overdo it. Assure them you’re available, but give them time to meet their neighbors and explore their new environment.

Encourage social connection – Enjoy an occasional meal with your parent in the community restaurant or join them for a social event, class or program. Take note if they are interacting with other residents and staff, and gently make introductions if your parent appears shy about making new acquaintances.

Monitor their well-being – When you talk to your parent, ask if they are eating well, taking their medications, engaging with others and staying active. Talk with the community director to stay apprised of your parent’s physical and emotional health, and ask what arrangements can be made to help your parent adapt to their new environment.

Manage the emotional impact

The excitement you feel over your parent’s new beginning can sometimes be accompanied by feelings of sadness or guilt, leaving you with doubts. Was this the right decision? Will my parent be happy? Will they make new friends? Will they be cared for?

Understanding the many ways older adults benefit from a community setting may ease these concerns. Explore “5 reasons why older adults thrive in senior living communities” and “How quality care services empower older adults” to learn more and consider other ways to manage any conflicting emotions.

Find support – Share your feelings and concerns with family and friends – they can often provide a different perspective or offer advice you hadn’t previously considered. If you still feel overwhelmed, consider discussing the situation with the director of the senior living community. If warranted, they can recommend a therapist to help work through this time. Seek out local support groups created specifically for children of older adults.

Consider the alternative – If you find yourself second-guessing the decision, reflect on all of the concerns that led to it. Maintaining a household was likely becoming more challenging and perhaps even more dangerous for your parent. Could you have continued to provide the level of care your parent needs, especially as those needs escalate? What about their feelings of isolation? Study after study has shown that daily connection improves well-being and happiness.

Know what you’re feeling is normal – Many children of older adults have felt like they were letting their parents down by not doing more to help them keep living at home. But encouraging your parent to move to a senior living community is an act of love that can empower them to live a more fulfilling life.

Call on us for help or support

As a leader in the industry, Atria Senior Living is happy to share our expertise and offer any support we can – even if the support you need is from someone other than us. Our trusted partnerships with local real estate professionals and moving companies could offer significant savings and take much of the worry out of your planning.

We can assist with your parent’s move every step of the way, from obtaining any needed medical documents to selling your parent’s home to the move itself. We can even put you in touch with interior designers that will fill your parent’s new apartment with furnishings that reflect their style and make everything feel homey.

We want to see your parent flourish in their new home from their very first day here. Reach out to your local Atria community director today to make your parent’s transition as positive and smooth as can be.

When deciding upon an assisted living community for your parent or older relative, knowing all of the options that are available to you can make things easier. Whether you anticipate transitioning to a senior living community in the near future or are simply conducting research, it’s important to know which senior care service would best fit your family’s needs.

In this video, Karen Devaney, National Director of Care Management at Atria, answers questions about which levels of care are best for your parent or older family member.

Identifying the right time for senior living or assisted living

As people grow older, the responsibilities of owning and maintaining a home can put their health and safety in jeopardy. This is especially true for individuals with care needs, who may also rely on their caregivers as their only method of social connection. Caregivers can be limited to just one or two people who serve a number of different roles. One of those people may be you, or perhaps you have tried your best to divide caregiving tasks among your siblings and other family members or hired an in-home caregiver to provide assistance.

A move to senior living or assisted living, a setting that offers 24-hour support, is often what’s necessary for your parent to maintain their sense of independence – and for you to have peace of mind.

Ask yourself these questions:

On a daily basis, does my parent or relative engage in physical exercise? Socialize and connect with others? Eat a variety of fresh, nutritious meals? Set goals and enjoy a sense of purpose? If you answered no to one or more of these questions, senior living may be a good choice for your parent now.

On a daily basis, have you experienced symptoms of caregiver burnout?

Examples include:

• High levels of stress due to an incident or hospitalization involving your parent
• Moments of depression or anxiety
• Trouble finding time for yourself
• Feeling a strain on your relationship with your parent

If you answered yes to one or more of these questions, it may be a good time to start looking into what services and support assisted living communities can provide to help your family.

What living options are available in senior living communities?

In many senior living communities, you will find three types of living options: independent living, assisted living or supportive living, and memory care. The difference between each community depends on the type of support provided. Some communities offer all three levels, creating a seamless continuum of services.

Independent living

If your parent is active and able to take care of daily tasks like bathing, getting dressed and grooming, they are probably best suited for independent living. These communities provide many opportunities for social engagement and the freedom to pursue personal interests without worrying about cooking, cleaning or home maintenance.

How to tell if independent living is right for your parent:

• Is my parent physically independent but often isolates? Am I worried that they may be lonely? It is common for older adults to withdraw from others as they age and find themselves napping or watching TV all day. Independent living offers opportunities to keep them engaged and active.
• Does my parent live alone? Do I worry about their safety or feel the need to constantly check in on them? Are they having trouble keeping up with home maintenance? If yes, the increased safety, security and sense of community provided by independent living would be a great benefit to them.
• Does my parent often rely on me or others to transport them to appointments, run errands or handle everyday tasks? Are they still driving on occasion and probably shouldn’t be? They may find independent living ideal since common services include transportation, cooking, cleaning, maintenance and more.

Assisted living and supportive living

Assisted living communities – also called supportive living or personal care communities in some areas – usually offer 24-hour support with a broad range of senior care services, including:

• Personal care services such as bathing, grooming and getting dressed
• Safety checks
• Escorts to and from meals and events
• Medication reminders, which includes consultation with primary physicians and pharmacies, plus ordering prescriptions and scheduled reviews by a licensed nurse
• Transportation to and from local appointments
• Assistance with telehealth appointments
• Incontinence management

Full-time licensed nurses are often employed at assisted living communities to serve as another layer of professional support. And for further convenience, physicians typically visit communities, so residents can see a doctor in the comfort of their home.

Some assisted living communities partner with rehab facilities to offer therapeutic services on-site; “house calls” at the community may be arranged if on-site services are not offered.

Communities that offer customizable levels of care can help enhance the quality of life for older adults. In addition, quality senior living communities will empower their residents to live a more active, independent lifestyle.

How to tell if assisted living is right for your parent:

• Would my parent or relative be at risk if they spent a few days alone? If yes, assisted living would be an ideal option.
• Does my parent have a degenerative disease or serious medical condition? Even if your parent manages fairly well and only requires occasional support, assisted living could be the best fit.
• Is the condition of my parent’s home concerning due to their inability to clean or take care of maintenance? If maintaining the home has become too difficult for your parent, consider assisted living. However, if your parent is able to maintain their home but no longer wants to worry about the day-to-day tasks associated with home ownership, independent living would be a good fit.

Memory care

If your parent has challenges due to long-term effects of Alzheimer’s or other forms of memory impairment, they would greatly benefit from a memory care community. These safe and secure environments offer round-the-clock staff to provide specialized care services and medication assistance. Additionally, auxiliary programs like support groups for caregivers, opportunities to improve cognitive health, and events to keep residents happy and engaged are common at communities that offer memory care services.

A thoughtfully designed community that offers dementia care will leave no detail unturned to provide a better quality of life for residents. Some examples include playing familiar music throughout common spaces to soothe residents and serving meals on colorful dinnerware to increase food recognition and appetite.

Deciding whether or not memory care is right for your family member can be complicated depending on their stage of impairment.

How to tell if memory care is right for your parent:

Does my parent often wander off or forget where they are? Do I have concerns about them getting lost? Have they recently gone for a walk and got confused on how to get home?

If so, memory care may be right for them.

Do I have concerns that my parent is unsafe at home alone? Do they remember people and places but forget to do important tasks like turning off the stove, locking doors and eating three meals a day?

Forgetfulness could be a common sign of aging; however, advanced memory loss can pose a safety risk. If your parent struggles to remember certain safety practices, choosing a community that offers both assisted living and memory care services would be ideal in the event their cognitive health declines.

Do I worry my parent is in the early stages of dementia?

First, visit a doctor for an official diagnosis, since there are other diseases that can present themselves as dementia. If your parent is in fact in the early stages of dementia, consider an assisted living community that also offers memory care as their condition progresses.

Senior care services at Atria can help your family

This is not a comprehensive questionnaire, and you do not have to answer every question immediately or all on your own. Transitioning from home to a senior living community can be a difficult and overwhelming process, but we are here to help.

At Atria, each resident in an assisted living community receives a thorough assessment of their physical, emotional and functional status from a licensed nurse. During the first 90 days, a reassessment is conducted to verify that we are providing the appropriate level of care.

Thereafter, additional assessments are performed quarterly or as-needed based on caregiver recommendations or changes in condition. These evaluations help us see that our residents are properly cared for and are among the factors we consider in determining and monitoring staff levels.

The professional staff at Atria Senior Living is here to assist you and your family – from answering your questions about senior living to sharing info about senior care and more. If you’d like to connect with one of our knowledgeable staff members for a one-on-one consultation, contact us. We’d be more than happy to discuss the right level of care for your parent.

Our Guide on Deciding if it is Time for Your Parent to Move into Assisted Living (PDF)

Senior living communities help older people achieve more meaningful and fulfilling lives. Numerous reports tout the health benefits for older adults who live a more social life. With many different factors that may limit social opportunities for your parent, senior living communities make it easier to connect with others. Additional benefits include delicious meals, regular fitness and exercise classes, a 24-hour staff and discreet support when needed.

Still, senior living communities are often an afterthought because of caregiver guilt or the potential sadness or resentment from the older adult.

What are the top 5 benefits of senior living?

 

1. Senior Living Benefit #1: Unparalleled convenience
2. Senior Living Benefit #2: Opportunities to create new connections
3. Senior Living Benefit #3: Easy access to care services
4. Senior Living Benefit #4: Healthier mind and stronger body
5. Senior Living Benefit #5: Families can be families again

Senior Living Benefit #1: Unparalleled convenience

Older adults who move into senior living communities often say they feel relief after downsizing and moving out of their homes, in large part because being a homeowner means shouldering the responsibilities of tidying up the house, mowing the lawn, fixing the gate latch whenever it breaks or calling the plumber when the sink clogs.

At a senior living community, the staff handles the cleaning and maintenance. Most utilities are also covered in the monthly rent, so there’s no need to worry about paying multiple bills on time. At many communities, there are drivers to help your parent get to appointments and run errands. Plus, amenities such as a fitness center, art studio, movie theater and game room may be only steps from their apartment door.

Senior Living Benefit #2: Opportunities to create new connections

Life at a high-quality senior living community should include a calendar of robust events like guest lectures, card games like bridge and rummy, board games, group walks outdoors, exercise programs, art classes and opportunities to connect with neighbors. The events calendar should feature programs and activities that help your parent rediscover hobbies and find new interests.

Many senior living communities also often offer opportunities to volunteer in the local community. This contributes to an active brain and improves cognitive health, which can lower the risk of dementia. If your parent enjoys giving back or finds value in joining a just cause, volunteering will add to their sense of joy and purpose.

Senior Living Benefit #3: Easy access to care services

Currently, your parent may have access to an in-home caregiver during certain hours of the day. Or maybe they call upon you and other relatives to remind them about appointments, refill their prescriptions, or help them take a shower or get dressed. At an assisted living community, a professional staff handles these services.

Some communities offer discreet care 24 hours a day, and services generally fall into three categories: personal care (bathing, grooming, getting dressed and safety checks), medication assistance and incontinence management.

Memory care services, which are geared toward those who are experiencing the challenges of Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia, are also offered at some senior living communities.

Senior Living Benefit #4: Healthier mind and stronger body

In a senior living community, your parent will have access to fresh, delicious meals to enjoy alongside their neighbors. Whether it’s dinner in the restaurant or hors d’oeuvres and cocktails at the bistro, dining with new friends will positively impact your parent’s emotional and physical well-being.

Fitness is also a key to aging well. Many senior living residents enjoy outdoor walking areas, exercise classes and other avenues, which help contribute to a healthier lifestyle than they experienced at home.

Senior Living Benefit #5: Families can be families again

Many find that moving into a senior living community relieves the strain on familial relationships caused by the complexities of caregiving. Look for a senior living community that will empower your parent to enjoy a more fulfilling life, which includes reconnecting with you as their child rather than as their caregiver.

To discover the benefits your parent would experience at a senior living community, we invite you to visit us for a tour. If your parent would prefer to try community living to see if it’s right for them, a short-term stay is a good option to consider. No matter what you decide, our experienced staff is always available to help you navigate the complexities of caregiving and guide you during the transition to senior living.

 

Our Guide on the Benefits of Senior Living (PDF)

It’s important to prepare yourself with senior care information and tools you can use before taking a tour of a senior living community. Reading online reviews can give you an idea of what to expect, but the best way to get a clear picture of community life is to visit and experience it in person. Having a list of questions specific to your situation is also a good way to plan ahead.

Are the needs of your parent or family member growing faster than you anticipated? Are you stressed more than you’d care to admit? The earlier you look into communities and other senior care resources , the more confident you will feel about making decisions regarding your parent’s care.

Finding a new community to call home can be difficult at any age, but it’s especially challenging for an older adult who may be firmly rooted in a family home where many memories were made. The transition from home to community can stir feelings of excitement for some, and sadness for others.

Below, you’ll find questions to help initiate conversations and tips for finding the best fit for your parent’s needs.

6 questions and other important considerations when touring a senior living community

Prepare a checklist of questions for the assisted living or retirement community beforehand. If your parent is open to the idea, have them join the tour with you. If not, consider bringing them with you after weighing the pros and cons of each community.

 

1. How does the community make residents feel at home?
2. What training is required of staff members? Are any healthcare professionals on call?
3. What are the safety and security protocols for diseases and natural disasters?
4. What services are included in the rental rate?
5. What levels of care services are offered?
6. Are financial planning or other resources available?

How does the community make residents feel at home?

Take notice of the property around the senior living community. Look for easily accessible walking paths and common areas such as gardens, patios and courtyards. Upon entering the community, ask yourself these questions: Did I receive a friendly greeting? Are common areas tidy? Do residents look happy and engaged? Are the hallways and common areas well-lit, spacious and easy to navigate?

When touring apartments, inquire about privacy protocols and what residents are allowed to bring from home and what is prohibited. Is the senior living community pet-friendly? If so, what breeds or types of animals are accepted? If possible, request the floor plans of available options. If décor and customization to the apartment is important, ask what is allowed and if upgrades are available. Make sure to ask about accessible accommodations if your parent requires a wheelchair, walker or cane.

What training is required of staff members? Are any healthcare professionals on call?

It’s important to get a feel for the team that interacts with residents the most. After all, they are vital members of the community. Inquire about the training and various credentials required of staff members. Is the community fully staffed? What is the staff-to-resident ratio?

What about continuous training and education to keep employees informed on best practices and the latest research? Knowing these specifics can provide you with comfort and peace of mind.

How long is the average length of tenure for staff members? Loyal employees are indicators of a positive workplace. Observe staff and resident interactions. Do staff members call residents by their names? Do they seem warm and approachable?

Are there nurses or medical professionals on-site? If your parent requires specific assistance due to chronic illness, for conditions such as diabetes or Parkinson’s disease, ask if staff members have experience managing those needs or addressing their specific diagnosis.

What are the safety and security protocols for diseases and natural disasters?

Questions about safety and security are most likely at the top of your priority list. Is there round-the-clock security, seven days a week? In case of natural disasters – like fires, floods, earthquakes and power outages during extreme weather – what is the protocol? How are personal emergencies handled? A community that has invested in proper safety and security measures for the well-being of their residents is the hallmark of a residence that is dedicated to high-quality senior living care.

Add questions to your checklist about safety measures taken during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic and how the community continues to mitigate the spread of contagious diseases like influenza, respiratory infections and the stomach flu.

Ask about safety equipment and devices such as easily accessible fire alarms, pull-cords in the bathrooms, handrails in hallways and emergency alert devices such as wristbands or pendants. If your parent needs memory care, ask about safety implementations that contribute to a secure neighborhood.

What services are included in the rental rate?

A major perk that draws older adults to a retirement community or senior living community is the services that enable a fuller, more flexible lifestyle. Is housekeeping available? Laundry service? If chef-prepared meals are an option, what selections are on the menu? Are there options for low-sodium and other specific diets? How many meals will your parent enjoy on a daily basis? How many dining venues are there? If possible, grab a bite to eat in one of the venues. After all, the best way to learn about the dining experience is to sample the cuisine yourself.

Is transportation offered? If so, how often? The more day-to-day tasks that are handled by a dedicated staff, the more time and energy your parent can put toward things they love.

While you want to make sure your parent is supported with all they need, don’t forget to inquire about the services that foster connection, curiosity and growth.

Are there events planned for residents? Ask to see a calendar. Is there anything your parent may find interesting and engaging? Are there group outings? Any social events? Are classes offered to enrich the mind? Are there groups that get together based on common interests? How are events kept fresh and engaging for residents?

Ask if you can attend an event, class or workshop. Are there programs designed with cognitive and/or physical health in mind? These fine details will elevate your parent’s experience and encourage them to stay engaged and active – both which are keys to aging successfully.

What levels of care services does this community offer?

If your parent needs additional care services, be prepared with questions to ask assisted living caregivers as well as information about your parent’s specific needs. Whether they are relatively independent but need help with medication management or they have limited mobility and find activities of daily living difficult to manage on their own, it’s important to be clear about the support that is needed – to make sure the community can accommodate your parent’s needs. Inquire about what kind of assistance and services are available. Does someone accompany residents to each meal? Can a staff member help them get dressed or assist with grooming?

If your parent has been diagnosed with a degenerative disease or a condition that you anticipate worsening over time, like multiple sclerosis, lupus or Parkinson’s, ask if the staff has experience managing that condition and if the assisted living community offers progressive care services.

Is care customizable? Are personal check-ins offered? How is medication managed? Do staff members administer medication? Is there a licensed physician or nurse on staff? What about certified nursing assistants? Ask if an assessment is required and what it entails. How many caregivers are there overnight?

Are financial planning or other resources available?

The person conducting the initial tour will probably wait to discuss fees, rates and other costs until the end, but it’s always helpful to be prepared with questions before you walk through the door. Research senior living communities beforehand to acquire some understanding of pricing to avoid sticker shock.

What is the pricing model of the senior living or assisted living community you’re touring? What services are included in the rental rate? For example, are housekeeping, utilities, dining and transportation included? What about amenities such as a spa, fitness center and other communal benefits?

Don’t assume all care services are offered at a flat rate in an assisted living community. Ask specific questions about expenses, especially if your parent has specific needs. Is assisted living pricing tiered based on the level of care needed? Are services offered à la carte or are there additional fees? Ask about any move-in fees or other introductory costs associated with being a new resident. Also, ask about refund policies and billing and payment policies.

After you receive pricing information, ask about financial planning assistance. While the administrative staff at an assisted living community or retirement community aren’t substitutes for financial advisors, they may be able to introduce you to helpful contacts and resources, which can help you determine the smartest way to pay for senior living.

Here’s a helpful tip for creating the most purposeful checklist of questions: Discuss the idea of transitioning into a senior living community with your parent. You may be initially met with resistance – making you hesitant to broach the conversation again in the future. Your parent may feel they would be sacrificing their freedom, or they may not understand the full benefits of senior living. When the timing feels right and they seem receptive, gently revisit the conversation to see what their wishes and desires may be.

Maybe the size of the living space is a deal-breaker or your parent wants to stay close to their place of worship. Do they prefer an idyllic country setting over a bustling urban one or vice versa? Let their input guide you. You may want to search online for options or ask your inner circle – after all, nothing beats a word-of-mouth recommendation. Eventually, you’ll want to schedule a time to visit a senior living community. Consider only touring a few of your top choices with your parent to avoid making the experience overwhelming.

Interested in visiting an Atria community? Both in-person and virtual tours are available at most communities.

We’ll ask a few questions to find out what you’re looking for in a senior living community. Then, we’ll create an experience that focuses on the aspects that are most important to you. Bring a comprehensive list of questions or concerns you have. We’d be delighted to show you everything Atria has to offer.

Our Checklist for What to Ask a Senior Living Community (PDF)