How to find the best long-term care home
Long-term care residences (which may also be referred to as nursing homes or continuing care communities, although this term is ambiguous) are perfect for seniors who may require assistance with daily living activities such as eating, dressing, or taking medication. These communities ensure that vulnerable seniors live in safe and secure environments where dedicated staff members take care of their needs. To find the best long-term care residence, consider the following questions before you make your decision.
Care
- What types of care do you or your loved one need?
- Do you require round the clock supervision?
- For family members: What would make you worry the least about the safety and well being of your loved one?
- What kind of accreditation does the staff have?
Reputation
- What do current residents think about the community?
- Do residents’ family members like it?
- If a larger company (or corporation) owns the home, what is its reputation?
- Is it a member of a voluntary retirement home organization (i.e. the Ontario Retirement Communities Association or the Alberta Senior Citizens’ Housing Association)?
- If your province has a ministry for seniors, what does it say about the residence?
- Does the home have any known complaints that people have filed against it?
- Can you find testimonials from resources not including the home itself?
Lifestyle
- Does the home cater to specific or cultural diets (i.e. kosher, halal, vegetarian)?
- Can you bring your pet with you? Will someone help you care for it?
- How much furniture can you bring from your own home? By how much will you need to downsize your life?
- Where is the long-term care home located? Is it accessible to family members? Do you like the area?
- What kind of activities does the home offer?
Costs
- What is the average cost of a basic room in your province?
- Are you looking for a standard room or a more luxurious accommodation? Do you seek a shared, semi-private, or private suite?
- Are provincial subsidies or co-payment options available?
- Will your province’s long-term health insurance cover any of the expenses?
- How many of the home’s services are included in its regular fee? Are there any extra costs (such as scheduled transportation)?
Check out Comfort Life’s financing tips for much more information on how to make your retirement residence affordable.
Quality of the Home
- Is it well designed?
- How old is the residence? Do you think it will require noisy renovations anytime soon?
- Is the home well lit?
- What does a typical unit look like?
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What do you look for in a long term care home? Share your ideas in a Comment below.
Related articles:
Long Term Care Retirement Homes
Change is Difficult But Not Impossible
The Impact of Care on Your Finances
Home Care: An introduction
