It can be difficult for the family when an older family member needs to move to a different community for better assistance and support. Leaving the security of their own home can cause a lot of anxiety in you or your loved one, so taking a tour of the assisted living community can be a good idea. It would be best to look out for these things when touring an assisted living community in Corrales, NM.
Pay Attention to How Team Members Interact with Residents
The dedication and care of the team play a big part in the community’s excellence. As you visit, pay close attention to the team members and observe the interactions between the team members and the residents. Do they look like they have good relationships? Do they talk and smile a lot? Do they seem familiar with one another? Do they look like they are happy working and living there?
You might also pay attention to their body language, and facial expressions since nonverbal cues reveal a lot. Observe if they feel comfortable with one another or if there are any signs of tension.
Understand and Check the Amenities They Offer
Although some communities may appear well-presented online, they may look different in reality. Expectations and reality may not be the same thing. Check the environment and surrounding areas, and notice if they have all the amenities they claim to have. A great community feels homey, has ample open space for walks, and has all the conveniences like a restaurant-styled dining hall or a fitness center. You need to feel confident that this is the place where your loved one will thrive in. Also, make sure the assisted living community incorporates a lot of fun and engaging activities to keep your loved one socially, mentally, and physically active.
Assess Safety and Cleanliness
When you tour the assisted living community, ensure that it is a secure environment. Especially if your loved one is diagnosed with dementia or other conditions, you want to make sure that there are necessary procedures and physical assistance in place that can help your loved one find their way around. Very importantly, ensure there are enough team members everywhere to care for all the residents. Check if they provide round-the-clock care for emergencies or sudden requests. Look beyond the lavishly designed lobby to have an accurate representation of the standard of the community. Instead, focus on how well-kept the place is. Does it look clean and smell fresh? Does it look organized and tidy? You would want your loved one to live in a clean and well-maintained environment.
Understand Fees Structure
Different retirement communities will have different cost structures since every company has its unique way of calculating fees. Before leaving a community, make sure you are aware of the monthly payments, ongoing expenses, and any other costs that are not mentioned. Also, do your research to find out what the average rates are to give you a better idea of what your loved one will receive.
