The decision to move into residential care is not an easy one. In fact, it is one of the most difficult decisions that you and your family might have to make. Especially in the later years of life, the need to retain independence and integrity must be sensitively met with the realities of aging. This decision will be tense, scary, and likely quite emotional. Therefore, it’s important that you remain focused on which choice is best for you, at this time, and get support in the decision.
But, with the aging population, the importance of assisted living facilities is only set to increase. If you’re feeling overwhelmed by this decision, here are some suggestions to provide some guidance.
By asking some intentional questions about how the care facility will guide you or your loved ones through this uncertain time, you will feel more at peace about the decision that is made.
Is There a Sense of Community?
Having a community relates directly to a sense of belonging, something which socially connected humans cannot be separated from. As one ages, friends and loved ones are outlived, one becomes less able to physically enjoy the same activities, and a fear of the future may cloud your enjoyment of each day. Consequences of loneliness and depression can literally be fatal, with new evidence prioritizing the urgency with which mental health among the aging is addressed.
It is vital that older persons continue to belong, feel valued, and purposeful. And as this instinctual need is so essential to our mental and physical health, assisted living facilities like Arcare is led by significance as one of their guiding principles. If you’re looking for a home for a loved one, visit https://arcare.com.au/ to inquire further. It would also be insightful for those of you interested in understanding how Arcare’s home care system is expanding. There is much to learn from successful residential care homes, especially how a family or community feeling is translated to the activities available, the environment, and the knowledge from management about bringing residents together.
Make sure you do thorough research and become informed of what you’re looking for. Before you commit to a home, especially if you don’t know anyone who has lived there before and you’re unsure, here are some more questions you should know before you commit.
Does the Care Facility Support Your Lifestyle?
This may seem like a strange idea, but when you move into a residential care home, you want to continue the lifestyle you love! Whether this means reading in the garden, playing cards with friends, going to a prayer group, or enjoying some entertainment, the activities that keep you happy should be available to you.
The facility you choose should accommodate your lifestyle needs and desires, ensuring that you do not stop living the moment you enter the home. Ask about recreational activities and entertainment that are offered. Aging is a beautiful process, and being in a home that caters to your joys will allow you to enjoy some of your happiest times to come!
Does the Facility Understand the Journey Ahead?
Everybody is aware that though aging is an amazing journey, it can be filled with tough times and existential challenges. The residential care home of your choice should very well understand the journey ahead, helping you and your family prepare for what is to come, and guiding you through the unknown.
You should be able to query the care facility directly with specific questions that are significant to you and your loved ones. The care of those aging is a shared one, and you should trust and feel safe in the competence of the home.
What Is Their Track Record of Guiding Ageing Adults Through This Process?
In addition to asking directly, you can also query others’ experiences and do some online research. Though it may take time to get the assurance you are looking for, you need to look deeper at the history of aged care. Check for discrepancies in stories, any policy previous violations, and accounts of dissatisfied or neglected residents.
Entering a new era after you qualify for residential care can be terrifying, but your experience of life afterward can be fulfilling, hugely satisfying, and affirming. Working with experts in the field of aging and care will allow you to feel at peace with your next steps. And if you’re looking at options for your aging parents or loved ones, understand their fears and work with them to make their life as comfortable as they can be. Trust the older persons if they are uneasy about a certain home, as they will be living there and they must feel completely safe.
