Page 2 - How To Guide 2015

2TT HOW-TO GUIDE
ADVERTISING SUPPLEMENT TO THE TRI-LAKES EDITION OF THE ARKANSAS DEMOCRAT-GAZETTE • SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 20 , 2015
Choose an assisted-living facility
WITH MT. CARMEL COMMUNITY SENIOR LIVING
Sometimes, illness or age can take a toll on a person. They find that living independently at home is no longer a viable option.
When you need to look for an assisted-living facility, there are many things to consider.
Cost is often the first thing people think about when searching for a facility. While a clear un- derstanding of expenses is beneficial, there are other aspects to keep in mind.
Be sure you know the cost breakdown of each facility. An awareness of how fees are charged will help you avoid surprises later. Special services might be an additional cost.
The quality of care and the satisfaction of cur- rent and former residents will also figure promi- nently into your decision.
Of course, the maintenance and comfort level of the facility is also something to research.
Conduct an online check of assisted-living homes in your area. Many websites will feature reviews from family members, friends and res- idents. Make a list of facilities that might be a good fit.
Be sure to visit each facility on your list. Look carefully at the condition of the buildings. In- quire about activities for the residents. Also, take a look at the calendar of events to get a better idea about the lifestyle of people living there.
Go out of your way to meet residents and family members. Early evening or weekend afternoons are the best times to tour a facility. Ask for honest opinions about the staff, amenities and accom- modations.
You or your loved one may only need a secure environment, or assistance in case of a fall. In the future, these needs could change. The ideal facility will accommodate additional needs in the future. For example, a community can provide additional assistance if a person needs memory care, said Jimmy Elrod, executive director of Mt. Carmel Community Senior Living, which has lo- cations in Benton and Hot Springs Village.
If mobility becomes a concern, the size and lay- out of the center may become more important. Eventually, you may need someone to dispense medication, manage appointments, provide transportation and offer more personal levels of care.
While some facilities can provide increasing amounts of care, other centers may require that a
When choosing an assisted-living facility, it is important to seek honest opinions about the facility’s staff and accommodations.
resident leave the facility should his or her needs increase.
A facility is a good match when it resembles the lifestyle to which the person is accustomed.
Make a list of things that are important to you or your loved one. If the person who will be en- tering the facility pursues gardening, crafting or other hobbies, look for a center that will let the resident continue these hobbies with ease.
People who enjoy staying active and exercis- ing can find a facility that has a gym, an exercise room or a secure place to walk. Gregarious peo- ple need centers that provide plenty of opportu- nities for socializing. A community with more independent garden homes and a clubhouse may be the ideal solution for residents in this season of their life, Elrod said.
Moving into an assisted-living facility doesn’t have to be stressful or unpleasant. With research and diligence, you can be confident that you or your loved one will be well cared for, while still being able to enjoy life.
— Courtesy of Green Shoot Media with contributions by Cody Graves, special sections writer