What to Look for in an Assisted Living Community: A Comprehensive Guide for Seniors and Their Families
If you or a loved one is considering the move to an assisted living community, you likely have more than a few questions.
Will I have enough space to feel comfortable in my new apartment?
What will the community be like? Will I make friends?
How will I find ways to stay healthy, safe, and still see my family?
Making the right choice in an assisted living community can make all the difference in our later years. When older adults have trouble keeping up with the day-to-day of living alone, a little support can go a long way, which is exactly what the top assisted living communities in Austin have to offer.
Not sure what to look for in an Austin assisted living community? Here are some tips to help you make the most of your initial search, community tours, and your final decision.
Why Make A Move To An Assisted Living Community?
One of the big questions communities hear from potential new residents is, “Why should I move to an assisted living community over moving in with a loved one?”
Choosing to transition to a living situation that involves other residents and support staff can feel like giving up your autonomy or independence. But when you get to know the benefits of moving to an assisted living community, you’ll quickly see that your biggest worries can actually be great opportunities!
Here are just a few reasons to consider moving into an assisted care community in Austin:
- You’ll enjoy plenty of space in the apartments, with accessible floor plans and safety features.
- The dining options are second to none and are easily accommodating to any dietary need.
- The caring, compassionate staff are there to help you feel at home and supported each day.
- You may just find your new best friends living next door (and a few new hobbies to go with them!)
As you start looking at potential assisted living communities, it’s important to know what to look for. Here are some of the top elements to consider, and some key questions to ask along the way.
Location & Accessibility: Where You Live Matters
One of the first considerations should be where a potential assisted living community is located. Where you live will often play a role in your overall satisfaction and quality of life, and you’ll want to make sure you’re near the primary people and places that bring you joy.
Consider the nearby hospitals and healthcare services, are they close enough that you can make appointments and keep up with your health?
Also, look at the nearby amenities such as shopping, dining, and entertainment. You’ll want a location that is close enough to give you access to anything you might need, and easy to get to and from, even in the dark or poor weather.
What Are The Amenities & Activities Like?
While there should be plenty to do and see outside the walls of your assisted care community, you’ll also want to know what there is to do inside! Assisted living communities benefit from socially engaging environments that help residents feel connected and engaged no matter their needs or personal social desires.
You’ll want to look for assisted living communities that offer:
- Social spaces such as game rooms, libraries, and activity centers where you can engage in hobbies with others and grow your social circle
- Wellness communities such as fitness areas and walking paths to help you stay active both inside and out
- On-site conveniences allow you to enjoy access to laundry, as well as common areas where you can rest and relax with family and friends
Most assisted living communities have full calendars so you’ll have plenty to choose from the moment you make the move!
Consider The Care Options & Support Services
When individuals age, their need for extra help and support rises. This includes our health, which can begin to deteriorate as the years go by. Fortunately, the best assisted living communities in Austin will have plenty of healthcare support on-site, including physical and mental health options.
As you go on tour or contact assisted living communities, make sure to ask about:
- The staff’s qualifications and training in various areas of healthcare and wellness
- How the community approaches personalized care plans and how services can adapt as a resident’s needs grow
If you are a family member of a resident, knowing what to expect from the health and wellness aspects of an assisted living community can make all the difference.
Are You Ready To Experience The Best in Assisted Living? Visit Asher Point Senior Living of Austin Today!
Moving to an assisted living community can be a big step, but with the right help and support, you can feel confident in your decision. Make sure to take the time to have the right conversations, and don’t be afraid to reach out with questions or request a community tour to ensure you make the best transition.
Our team at Asher Point Senior Living of Austin is here to help answer any questions you might have about assisted living and retirement. Want to learn more? We invite you to join us for a tour of our retirement community and see why Austin has chosen Asher Point as the region’s best retirement and assisted living community!
