When you’re deciding on senior living for your loved ones, you have many options to choose from. Finding the best fit is one important key to a smooth transition from Mom or Dad living independently in their own home and moving into a senior living community. Your best bet is to do a little homework about the options available before you choose. At Riley Crossing, we’re always here to help with that. Contact us anytime and we can walk you through everything we offer. In the meantime, here are some great tips to help you decide. The bottom line is, it all boils down to the amount of care and assistance your loved one needs.
Understand the different types of senior living communities
What’s the difference between independent living, cooperative living, and assisted living? Is there a difference between memory care and skilled nursing facilities? Here’s a rundown:
Active 55+ or Independent Living. This is living in an apartment, townhome, condo, or cooperative building that has been designed with the needs of seniors in mind. It’s about creating a lifestyle of convenience and maintenance-free lifestyle, along with a host of activities for social interaction among residents. One great advantage of this option is the ability to contract services within Ebenezer. If you are in a building that has the full continuum of living, this will allow you to “age in place” without the need to move if the need for care arises.
Assisted Living. If your loved ones need a bit of assistance managing daily activities like dressing, cooking, cleaning, meds, and bathing, but are otherwise safe to live on their own, assisted living apartments are a great solution. Assisted Living communities provide more services than independent living communities, and there are staff on duty 24 hours a day.
Enhanced Care. If Mom or Dad needs higher levels of assisted living, with nearby staff 24 hours a day, our Enhanced Care neighborhoods just might be what you need in order to live a better quality of life.
Skilled Nursing Facilities or Care Centers. These provide more skilled care by licensed professionals than people in independent or assisted living need. It’s health care support, with nurses present around the clock, for your loved ones. We strive to create a residence experience that is warm, caring and inviting, offering opportunities to participate in programs like Life Long Learning, Horticulture Therapy and more.
Memory Care. Ebenezer is Minnesota’s expert in memory care with our trademarked Dimensions program. At Riley Crossing, we’re proud to be your trusted resource for personal care and support as you navigate your journey.
To learn more about which senior living option is right for your loved ones, get more information in contact us today. We’ll be happy to talk with you about next steps for your revered elders.
Think about the level of care your loved one needs now …
What is the reason you are considering a move to a senior living community for your loved one? Some common reasons include:
Companionship and social activities. Many seniors living in their own homes find that their social lives are smaller than they were when they had children at home. Their social lives can open up in a senior living facility because of all of the opportunities for activities and social interaction.
Increasing difficulties living independently at home. It might be more taxing to start the day, dressing, toileting, or grooming. You or your loved one might need help with things like meals, laundry, and everyday household tasks. At Riley Crossing Senior Living, we can take that burden out of the picture.
Mobility issues. Transportation can become an issue for seniors. Also, it may be more difficult to simply get around the house, whether it be using a walker or sitting and standing.
Knowing what your loved one needs now in terms of services can help guide you to the right place.
… and also look toward the future
Factor in your loved one’s future health needs. Many of our residents in independent living apartments are making plans for their future health needs. At Riley Crossing, we have an age in place community where residents can transition to assisted living without having to move.
We understand you want the best for your mom or dad. It’s about peace of mind for you, and safety and happiness for them. Don’t push off this decision until a crisis like a fall happens. Knowing your options before you need them is a key factor in your loved one’s quality of life.
Let our specialists help guide you through the process so you and your loved ones can live your best life moving forward. Call us at 952.934.7777 for more information.
