Mothers often stand as unsung heroes, weaving love and care into their children’s lives. As time unfolds, the roles reverse. Adult children and family members can find joy in giving back that love.
One of the most significant challenges we may face in life is helping our mothers relocate to assisted living. Finding a good fit can be challenging. This journey is filled with emotions, concerns, and the desire to ensure the best care for our loved ones.
At Sage Oak of Denton, we help families transition into senior living with honest answers and helpful resources. If your Mom needs help choosing the right type of assisted living, we can guide you through the process with compassion and care.
Choosing Assisted Living for Your Mother is an Emotional Journey
Helping your mother choose assisted living can be emotionally challenging. It’s essential to acknowledge the gravity of this decision – you should approach it with sensitivity and practicality. Start by having open, honest conversations about your observations, and be a good listener.
Be prepared for her to express a wide range of emotions, from surprise to fear to anger. Remaining objective and prioritizing her needs, preferences, and concerns can reduce stress. For example, if you’ve noticed she hasn’t been taking her meds, tell her you’re worried about potential illnesses or injuries. At the same time, understand her desire for independence and address her fears about the transition.
Assessing Mom’s Needs
The first important question to consider is the levels of care that will best suit your Mom’s needs. If you need professional advice, accompany her to medical appointments and ask questions.
Here are the four main categories of senior living options:
- Assisted living facilities provide seniors with personalized support in activities of daily living to encourage independence. Many have on-site amenities and activities for residents. Caregivers also help with medication management.
- Memory care communities offer focused dementia care for residents with cognitive impairment.
- Nursing homes are different. Staff members provide highly targeted health care and medical support for residents with chronic short- or long-term health conditions.
- Independent living communities are at the other end of the spectrum. They help residents enjoy maintenance-free living with opportunities to enjoy on-site amenities and activities. Some might offer limited medical care while others do not.
To find the right type of assisted living for your mother, remember that one size does not fit all.
Consider:
- Her medical requirements
- How she manages her daily tasks and activities
- Her social preferences
Determine if she requires specialized care for any health conditions. Then, ask if the community can provide services tailored to her individual needs for now and in the future.
Researching Assisted Living Options
Now that you know what Mom needs, it’s time to research available communities. Look for ones that offer a range of services, including the right level of medical support.
Explore each community’s reputation, care levels, caregiver qualifications, and amenities to determine if it offers the proper care. Assisted living communities like Sage Oak of Denton have memory care services for residents with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. Mom might not need that now, but it’s good to know it’s there.
Touring Potential Communities
If you are helping your mother choose assisted living, it is vital to tour potential communities. If she does not want to go, visit them yourself or with someone you trust. Observe the environment, the interaction between residents and caregivers, and the overall on-site atmosphere.
Ask to see an apartment, speak with residents, and sample the food. You can also inquire about their current activities calendar and the caregiver-to-resident ratio. That information provides valuable insights into whether it’s the right type of assisted living for your mother.
We also recommend encouraging your mom to engage with the community before making a decision. You can accompany her to social events, meet potential neighbors, and participate in activities. That will give you a feel for the community’s culture. Ensuring a social fit is vital for her happiness and well-being.
Financial Considerations
Choosing assisted living for your mother also involves careful financial planning. Understand the cost structure of each community and whether it aligns with your budget. Inquire about any hidden fees and explore available financial assistance programs. This kind of preparedness is crucial for providing the right type of assisted living without compromising on quality.
Private funds, including savings, retirement income, and investments typically cover senior living community costs. Additionally, long-term care insurance policies may cover expenses associated with assisted living services. Other options include veterans benefits, Medicaid for eligible individuals, and assistance from family members.
A Feeling of Protection
Your mother should feel protected in her new community. You should have peace of mind, knowing she is in the best hands. Inquire about emergency response protocols, security measures, and the accessibility of medical assistance.
Boutique Senior Living by Sage Oak of Denton
We understand why mothers (and fathers) don’t want to leave their homes, and that’s why we do assisted living differently. Our property is a boutique senior living community with six open-concept luxury homes. Each has 16 beds, an open kitchen with its own chef, and a nursing station.
Here’s what else you’ll find at Sage Oak of Denton:
- 1:5 to 1:8 caregiver-to-resident ratio
- A lovely, park-like setting
- Medication management and free medication delivery
- Bathing and personal grooming assistance
- On-site nurse
- Incontinence care
- Transportation services
- On-site beauty salon and barber shop
- Housekeeping and laundry services
- Daily activities, parties, and events
- 24-hour CCTV security
- 24-hour awake associates
Begin the assisted living conversation with your mom with courage and compassion. We’re here to lend you our utmost support. Reach out to Sage Oak of Denton, and we will guide you through the steps and arrange a tour.
Boutique is Better and Best for Mom
Helping your mother choose assisted living is an involved process, and we can help you confidently complete it. Great Care. Great Food. Great Communication. It’s all at Sage Oak of Denton. Contact us for more information.