Recognizing the early signals can be a jumping off point for any senior who may be in the need of assisted living care, but what are the steps you need to take to find the perfect care for you or your loved one? Use our valuable senior living resource to explore these 10 steps with your loved one to narrow down your search.

How to find the right assisted living community

2. 1. Do the Research
   Senior living communities are typically classified by the lifestyles or levels of care offered. Lifestyle choices range from Independent Living (age- restricted communities for seniors who live independently), Assisted Living (offering assistance with the activities of daily living), and Skilled Nursing (offering long-term skilled care by a nurse 24/7 or short-term rehabilitation). Many communities offer a combination of lifestyles.
4. 2. Schedule a Visit
   You can learn a lot online, but there’s nothing like visiting communities in person. Most offer personal tours and some offer no-obligation, short- term stay options so seniors can test the lifestyle before making a move. 2600 Parkview Lane | Bedford, TX 76022 | (817) 354-6556 | ParkwoodRetirementLCS.com
6. 3. Reserve a Temporary Stay
   To help identify the best placement option for your loved one, schedule a temporary Respite stay allowing them to enjoy the community’s amenities and social activities.
8. 4. Evaluate the Budget
   In most assisted living communities, services included in the monthly fee are extensive—three meals a day, utilities, emergency response systems, scheduled housekeeping and transportation to name a few. In general, supportive services and care, such as help with bathing, dressing and medication management are assessed and charged by the amount of service required. If your loved one is a surviving veteran or spouse, VA Aid and Attendance benefits could help pay for care. Long- term care insurance may be applicable too.
10. 5. Make Observations
    When visiting communities, ask residents if they like living there. Are residents engaged in activities? Ask about community services and amenities, and request a copy of their events and activities calendar. See if floor plans are well- designed and equipped to make life easier.
12. 6. Consider Transportation
    Many communities offer scheduled local transportation that practically eliminates the need and expense of maintaining a car—much less the worries and concerns about driving—in good weather or bad.
14. 7. Consider Shopping
    Is there a shopping center nearby—or does the community offer transportation and outings to the grocery store, bank, and mall? Great shopping options simply make retirement life more enjoyable.
16. 8. Consider Healthcare
    How close is the nearest hospital or medical center? If the senior living option you’re considering doesn’t include on-site health care options, you’ll want to know that medical care is nearby if and when it’s needed.
18. 9. Consider Security
    One of the key benefits to moving to a senior living community is added security. Ask about it. Many offer 24-hour security for all residents.
20. 10. Make an Informed Choice
    Choosing a senior living option is easier than you think if you do your research. The residents you come in contact with at senior living communities are very gracious and helpful. They also make great neighbors!