Ways to Select the Right Assisted Living Community in Fond du Lac
Seniors generally enjoy living at home as long as possible. In fact, 88% of seniors polled stated this is important to them. However, there may come a day when an older adult gets bored or needs some assistance.
The solution is moving to an assisted living community in Fond Du Lac. The question is how to choose the right place.
Continue reading to learn about the factors you should consider as you look for your area's best assisted living community.
Assess Your Needs and Preferences
Single-family homes come in all sizes, shapes, and colors because everyone has different tastes and needs. The same is true for assisted living communities: everyone has different preferences.
Thus, it's helpful to start with your needs and preferences. What are you looking for in a community? What reasons do you have for moving to assisted living?
As you consider these things, think about how much care you need. Evaluate your goals for moving there, and consider whether Fond Du Lac is the right location for a retirement community.
Those moving to a Fond Du Lac senior living community may have family and friends in the area, making it easier for people to visit. This area is also beautiful to live in and experiences all four seasons.
Additionally, research assisted living services. For example, what is the difference between assisted living, independent living, and nursing home care?
As you compare these options, you'll find that assisted living provides freedom and independence while offering the help you need. Another perk of assisted living is the activities you can access.
Research Available Options
The next step is researching all the communities offering Fond Du Lac senior living. As you search for options, you'll find several. However, Lakehouse Fond Du Lac stands out among the options.
Lakehouse Fond Du Lac is a top-rated community providing modern conveniences and superior care. You may want to check the Aging and Disability Resource Center (ADRC) to learn more about your options.
You can also research options yourself or ask your family for help. This area has multiple options, but they're not all equal.
Evaluate Quality of Care
While researching your options, evaluate the care each offers. There are several ways to do this, including:
Staff-to-Resident Ratios
The staff-to-resident ratio reveals a lot about a community's quality of care. Lower ratios generally result in more personalized care, while higher ratios may indicate there are not enough workers to go around.
Staff Qualifications and Certifications
Ask the community about their certifications and qualifications. Find out their standards for hiring staff and the types of experience the community requires.
State Information
You might also look into state information to learn more about a facility. Additionally, read reviews. Failing to evaluate a community's reputation is a common mistake to avoid.
Tour Communities
You can read about a community and look at pictures, but the best way to get a feel for it is by visiting it. To do this, contact the facility to schedule a tour.
You may want to tour one or more communities, and you should spend a few hours there. While there, observe:
- Community's cleanliness
- Staff-resident interactions
- Resident personalities and feelings
- Overall atmosphere
- Amenities and activities
- Medical services and assistance services
Ask if you can stay for a meal to determine the dining options and food quality. You could also ask to participate in some group activities before choosing to move into assisted living.
While touring the community, speak to the residents. You'll acquire first-hand details if you speak with those who currently live there. Ask them what they like about being there and if there are things they don't like.
Consider Safety and Security Measures
Another factor that matters to seniors is safety and security. When moving into assisted living, you'll want professional senior care services, but you'll also want to feel and stay safe.
What types of safety devices do the private rooms offer? Do the bathrooms have bars to hold onto? Are the toilets handicap-accessible?
Examine the doors and locks. Evaluate the community's systems and protocols for keeping people off the grounds and out of the buildings.
You can also discuss the community's security protocols and emergency response systems. These discussions help you determine if the community takes safety standards seriously.
Analyze Costs and Financial Options
The costs also matter. Discuss the fee structure with the staff to determine the cost differences. For example, some rooms might cost more than others, and you may have to pay more for specific services.
Many senior living communities help residents find financial assistance if needed. If you need help paying the bill, ask about the options. They can tell you who to contact for help and how to find the best types of assistance.
Review Contracts and Policies
Finally, review the admission agreements and contracts. These documents outline everything you must know about the rates, rules, and regulations. You must learn these things before signing a contract.
If you have questions while reading through the documents, talk to someone on staff to find the answers. At this time, you might also ask any additional questions you have about the community.
When you find the best place, sign the agreement and prepare for your move. Once there, get involved with some activities and begin enjoying life with other seniors.
Getting involved with social events helps you avoid feeling lonely and isolated. You'll stay healthier this way.
Make an Informed Decision About an Assisted Living Community in Fond Du Lac
When searching for an assisted living community in Fond Du Lac, you'll find several, but each is different. Evaluating each option helps you learn the pros and cons of each choice, helping you make the right decision.
It might be helpful to ask your friends and relatives for advice and opinions. They can help you fully analyze your options to make the best choice.
Lakehouse Fond Du Lac is a premier senior living community offering top-notch services and amenities. We pride ourselves on offering the best services and living accommodations for seniors.
Reach out today to learn more about what we offer.