Did you know people in their 60’s who visit their friends often were 12 percent less likely to develop dementia? Older people who are lonely have an increased risk of heart disease, depression, and cognitive decline.

Consider a senior housing community if you or your loved one need a social and secure environment. If you’re researching senior housing facilities, we can help.

In this guide, we’ll go over how to choose the right senior housing community. Use these tips we’re providing to select a community for you or your loved one.

Want to learn more? Keep reading.

What Level of Care’s Needed?

A critical factor for choosing a home is first knowing what level of care you or your loved one will need.

Is there health care available in the housing option? The health care needed will vary. Some people might only need some help with daily tasks.

Other people will need higher levels of care, like going to the washroom or preparing food.

Most seniors will look for a community that provides different levels of care. This way, if the person’s needs change, they can still stay in the community.

Evaluate the Amenities and Services

Finally, you’ll want to consider what’s important to you or your loved one. Is there a fitness center or pool where your loved one can remain active? What about access to a library or movie theater?

Think about what amenities are essential so you can narrow down your search.

Also, you’ll want to think about what services are available. Most communities will offer standard amenities like laundry, dining, housekeeping, and transportation.

There are other services like medical-related care. On-site therapies, medication management, and nursing aid are critical.

Don’t forget about programming. Daily programming will give seniors a chance to have variety in their life. Look at the current calendar in a community you’re considering.

Are there a lot of different events scheduled throughout the month? Would you prefer artistic pastimes or educational activities?

What About the Location?

Before choosing a senior living community, you’ll need to think about the location. Location is one of the main deciding factors for loved ones and seniors.

Sometimes, a person will move across the country to live close to a long-distance relative.

You’ll also want to think about if you or your loved one prefers a cool or hot climate. Is the community far from hospitals, grocery stores, and airports?

Consider Independent Living

If you or your loved one are over 55, you could consider an independent living community. This is an excellent option for someone who wants a social environment and independence.

People will have access to transportation, housekeeping, and restaurant-style dining. There are social opportunities, on-site events throughout the month, and educational programming.

Every independent living community’s different, but they are set up like apartment homes. Seniors will have access to a central resource like dining and professional staff.

Some people live in a home while others look for a community that offers resort-style living.

What About Assisted Living?

Assisted living is an option for seniors looking for a senior community yet need more help. People have access to housekeeping and meal preparation.

There are other care options like medication management, personal hygiene care, and transportation.

At an assisted living community, people attend different social events throughout the month. There are also exercise programs and educational opportunities.

Pick an assisted living community that focuses on independence and individual care.

You Could Consider Skilled Nursing Care

Older people recovering from an acute illness or injury need skilled nursing care. Others will need long-term help.

At a Skilled Nursing community, nurses will take care of you or your loved one’s needs all the time.

Seniors who need help with personal care, managing medication, or mobility will have the attention they need.

When researching communities, look for a spot that focuses on improving quality of life. Are there opportunities within the community to exercise or pursue hobbies?

People With Dementia or Alzheimer’s Seek Memory Care

If you or your loved one has Alzheimer’s or dementia, you’ll want to find a specific kind of community. A Memory Care community will cater to people who live with dementia or Alzheimer’s.

There will be programming, and personal care focused on people’s needs. At a Memory Care community, residents can relax in a secure and safe atmosphere.

Professional nurses have training in dementia and Alzheimer’s. These medical professionals will care for the residents. The nurses can identify physical, behavioral, or cognitive symptoms accompanying dementia.

If your loved one needs to live in a Memory Care community, you will be able to relax. In this kind of community, there’s a specific set of security protocols to keep the residents safe.

Don’t worry anymore about your loved one wandering away. The community’s surrounded by security systems and alarmed exits and entrances.

Visit this website to learn about a memory care community.

Now You Know How to Choose a Senior Housing Community

We hope this guide on senior housing facilities was helpful. Now that you know more about how to pick a senior housing community, start your search.

Make sure you know which kind of community you or your loved one will need. Consider what programs are available and the reputation of the community.

Want more helpful tips? Check out our section on family, relationships, and more.