How to Find the Best Assisted Living Facilities

All too often, the phrases "retirement home" or "senior home" have a negative connotation attached to them. But the truth is, a retirement home actually has a lot of really great assets that not only makes life for residents easier (no lawns to mow or home exteriors to paint), it’s also offers more options for seniors to stay active.

So, when choosing a facility the first point of order is to go into your search with a positive attitude. Many senior living communities offer a variety of activities to keep the mind and body healthy while having fun and meeting new people, so you or your loved ones won’t have to be lonely, isolated, or bored. Here are a few things to consider when starting your search:

Location. What is your priority when it comes to a place to live? Do you want to be near the beach or someplace else that’s walking distance or close proximity to entertainment venues like museums, restaurants, etc? If you like to travel, is the facility convenient to an airport or cruise line port?

Activities. Does the community have an on-site activities planner? What kinds of clubs do they offer? Is there a workout facility and trainers available? What kind of wellness programs do they offer? Do they regularly schedule transportation to area malls, music venues, etc? What kind of social services or religious activities are available for residents?

Meals. What kind of meal options do they have? When visiting different communities, you may want to add some time to sit down with the residents when they eat and try the food out. That’ll give you both a feeling for the "vibe" in the community and a taste of how well the food is prepared.

Personal Space. If you have pets and want to keep them, be sure to check what the pet policy is at each place you visit. Do they have someone who can watch you pet or come in and water plants when you travel?

Security. Is 24-hour security available? Are there emergency call systems available in private and common areas? What are the policies on visitation?

Progressive Help. Some facilities have multiple levels of assistance they can provide. If you are healthy now and just want the freedom to come and go as you please, but feel you may need some help a few months or years down the road, look for a community that offers both senior living and assisted living options on the same campus. When it comes to assisted living, find out what options are available as far as assistance with daily living activities (bathing, dressing, dining, housekeeping, nursing home facilities and maintenance, etc.). Also check to see if there is a health services plan with emergency medical attention available.

Do a little research online to find retirement homes available in the area you want to live. Once you’ve looked at all the options and find a few that you like, schedule a visit to get the full feel of the surrounding, the facilities, the staff, and the residents. Just like when moving to a new neighborhood, you’ll want to make sure you’ll be completely comfortable in your new surroundings.

There are a number of great reasons to consider moving to Harbor's Edge retirement home: fewer maintenance tasks to handle around the house, a greater opportunity to meet new people and be exposed to planned activities.