“I don’t know where to go or how to start? What can you tell me?”
Working in the senior housing
industry I have had consumers come to me after having made mistakes
by not researching the industry and having made the “wrong choice”
for their loved ones. It is for this reason I recommend people
first understand what Activities of Daily Living are. (Listed below)
You should look at this list and be honest with the number of activities
your family member needs help with. If they are in need of many
of these, then chances are they need assisted living.
If your family member has Alzheimer’s
don’t disillusion yourself by thinking they “will get better.”
Thankfully, there has been much research and development in the field
of Alzheimer’s but there is no cure. Medications will slow the progression
of the disease but nothing will reverse it. In time, it will get worse.
Prepare yourself by researching the disease and contacting an agency
that can help you. The Alzheimer’s Association is dedicated to providing
training and support to people and families affected by this disease.
Locate your closest chapter and seek advice and information to help
you prepare for what is happening and what is to come.
After you have evaluated your
family member and decided they need assistance, research your options.
If you know you need assisted living then start by obtaining a list
of facilities in your area. Call or visit each one. ALWAYS take someone
with you. If possible take the person with you that will be making the
move. The other person with you may think of a question you don’t,
or may observe something you miss. When inquiring into a facility you
will receive a lot of information and you don’t want to miss anything.
The smallest detail could make the difference in your loved ones happiness.
After visiting these facilities go to the Office of Regulatory Service’s
website and research the facilities. www.ors.dhr.state.ga.us/
This will provide a facility
inspection result so you can see what an auditor sees when they “go
inside” the facility. They research records and ensure the facility
is following state rules and regulations regarding senior care.
Also, try to talk with someone who has already provided care for a loved
one in this situation. They have the most experience and insight
to help you. If you have questions or need more detailed information
please call someone with Senior Solutions or one of our facilities.
They will all be more than happy to assist you by providing as much
information to help you make the best decision for your loved ones.
Activities of Daily Living
- Bathing/Showering
- Bowel and bladder
management
- Dressing
- Eating
- Functional mobility
- Personal device
care-Includes items like hearing aids, glasses, prosthetics, adaptive
equipment, etc.
- Personal hygiene
and grooming
- Community mobility
- Sleep/Rest
- Toilet hygiene
- Health/Drug management
and maintenance
- Safety procedures
and emergency responses
- Shopping
- Meal preparation
and cleanup
- Communication device
use
- Financial management