When a senior is in a care facility, it can sometimes feel impersonal and intimidating, especially if they’re someone who likes to have a lot of independence in their day-to-day life. Assisted living is a great option for seniors that need a little extra help beyond what their family can provide, but it’s important that the facility feels like more than just “a place to live.” Here are a few important ways to personalize an assisted living facility so it feels more like home.
1: Have an Attentive Staff
Of course, the first thing to look for in an assisted living facility is a responsive staff. A lack of responsiveness can make an older person feel like they don’t matter, and it can even lead to agitation or depression. The best way to avoid this is to find a facility with employees that are always on their feet, ready to help. After all, elderly people need a lot of care, so the staffers should always be on their feet and ready for anything!
2: Have Plenty of Activities
Activities such as group exercise classes and live entertainment can help seniors feel more stimulated in their day-to-day life, especially if they’re somewhat agoraphobic. It’s important to look for a facility with lots of activities going on throughout the week so your loved one will never be bored. Furthermore, a wide range of different activities will give them plenty of options to choose from.
3: Have Delicious Food
A lot of seniors tend to eat less as they age, so it’s important to find a facility with high-quality, delicious cooking. A wide range of nutritious food options will also help keep your loved one healthy and full of energy! A facility that offers plenty of tasty options can really work wonders for an elderly person’s overall mood and health.
4: Have a Nice Dining Area
The dining area of an assisted living facility can be just as important as the food that’s served there. A nice dining room with plenty of natural lighting and comfortable chairs makes for a great atmosphere to share a meal or just chat with other residents. Many facilities even offer live music on a regular basis to make the experience even more enjoyable.
5: Have Big, Clean Rooms
When it comes to senior living facilities, size matters. Facilities with bigger rooms for residents are going to feel far more homey and comfortable than those with cramped quarters. It’s also important that the bedrooms are clean and well-kept so your loved one can rest easily. Look for a facility with plenty of natural light and clean floors for an extra cozy feeling.
6: Have Accessibility to Outside Areas
Older people tend to spend most of their time inside, but it’s important that the outside gardens and walking areas are nice and accessible. Look for a facility with outdoor seating areas and gardens that are fully accessible. Accessibility can make or break the mood of an elderly person, so it’s important to find one that has plenty of natural lighting and open spaces to match their needs.
7: Have Plenty of Parking Spaces
It might seem like a trivial detail, but parking is actually an important feature to look for when choosing an assisted living facility. Not only is it frustrating to have to park in a crowded, disorganized lot, but it can also be dangerous for older people to navigate. Look for a facility with plenty of open parking spaces and well-maintained walking areas.
Ultimately, there are plenty of important factors to consider when choosing an assisted living facility. By personalizing the facility and customizing it to your loved one’s individual needs, you’ll be able to create a homey atmosphere that makes them feel happy and satisfied.
