If a loved one needs some help with daily living, such as cooking or getting in the shower, but doesn’t need round the clock nursing care then assisted living may be the right choice. When looking for assisted living Ventura county residents have a few things to consider.
Location: When choosing a location, the goal is to usually remain in the local area in order to be closer to loved ones. Where facilities are located can also make a difference in how they operate due to different laws in the area.
Size: Some assisted living facilities can be as small as four licensed beds, while some of the largest can have almost 500. Size will matter in different ways to different people but it’s important to look for the staff-to-resident ratio. Not only do you want to consider the staff-to-resident ratio but also the general attitude of the staff. Does the staff seem happy to be working there with the residents? The size of the assisted living facility can also affect the types of services offered. Larger ones may have more amenities, such as swimming pools or movie theaters. Lager facilities can also have different specialized units for memory care.
Services: One of the main things for assisted living Ventura county residents to think about is the services offered. The typical assisted living facility will have dining services, exercise and wellness programs, housekeeping, and medication management. There are some services that may be based on specific health needs. For example, many communities are also offering an Alzheimer’s or dementia program. Other facilities can also have program that helps with the quality of life, such as pet therapy.
Transition to Higher Care: It can be natural to want to resist the urge to consider the next move at this time but it’s important. Assisted living isn’t forever and it’s important to think about what comes next. Some facilities can be a part of a larger community, where residents move from assisted living to a skilled nursing facility if needed.
Cost: When it comes to assisted living Ventura county residents also need to consider the cost as this can be a deal-breaker. Many residents pay for assisted living through personal finances with savings, long-term care insurance, or home equity life insurance. Facilities can differ in how you pay them. Some require an upfront cost, some charge monthly rent, and some have a tiered system. Once you narrow down your choices to the facilities you can afford, you can then evaluate them the same way.
Culture: It can be hard to know what it’s like to live in assisted living until you do so. By visiting your options, you can get a taste of what the culture will be like. Talk to staff and residents and attend a meal to get a better sense of the environment.
