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If you or your loved one is having increasing trouble handling day-to-day activities, it could be time to consider an assisted living facility. Choosing the right place is vital because there are many options, and you want a place where you still maintain a certain level of independence while receiving the help you need. Keep in mind there are also needs that may arise in the near future, and it’s a good idea to make sure the facility you choose can also meet those coming needs. Although leaving your home or family can be a difficult decision, it may be the best possible solution given your personal situation. Other common names for assisted living facilities include residential care, congregate care, adult group home or alternative care facility.

There are a few specific signs that indicate that you may need to make the transition out of your current living situation and into a home where you receive more care. When

senior care or loved one needs more help than family members or in-home nursing care can provide, it may be time to move. When you’re stuck at home due to health complications or lack of mobility, you may begin to feel isolated. One of the benefits of moving to a facility is the social aspect. There will be many opportunities to make new friends and participate in a wide variety of activities. And if you cannot drive, facilities provide shuttle transportation so you can go to the store or go on outings without feeling you are inconveniencing a friend or family member. The energy required to maintain a home is also an issue. Lawn and garden maintenance, household chores and cooking are all things you won’t have to worry about so much at a facility. And then there is the matter of personal safety to consider. If you’re isolated and fell and were unable to get up or reach help, what would you do? Staying in a facility means you’re never alone.

Consider these important issues when choosing an assisted living facility. Perhaps the most important detail is whether or not the facility has a homey atmosphere. When you talk to the staff, do you feel rushed or do they take the time to answer your questions? Do they take an interest in the residents? Do they seem to genuinely care what you have to say? Making sure you feel at home in the new place is not only important to your happiness but affects your overall health. You also need to find out what kind of activities they offer, and if they are things you enjoy or would like to try. And if you are a religious person, find out what religious affiliation they have, if any, and if they have a chapel. If possible, try the food during your visit. You should like the food, but it should also be nutritious. Also ask if there is ever an option to eat in your room. Also, make sure medical problems and emergencies are handled properly. Find out what medical problems the facility can handle and what issues will require you to move to a location with more extensive care. If you don’t need serious nursing care but you cannot live at home anymore for whatever reason, assisted living could be the right choice for you.