The pro-con lists get pulled out when the most important decisions need to be made. Making the move into retirement living definitely warrants such a list. On average, people are comparing four or five different facilities and the cost of retirement communities is often top of the list. It is an extensive process and can feel like navigating the maze of options, and therefore requiring research, a lot of planning and many thoughtful conversations with friends and family.
When considering the cost of retirement communities, people are wanting answers to questions such as: how much will it cost? What is all included? What will happen if money runs out? These are all valid questions because people want to ensure their hard-earned money is affording them the quality services and support they prefer or need.
“Understanding that pricing is important, we need to turn the conversation to the needs of the loved one whom they are looking for,” explained Sue Okuniewski, advisor at Country Meadows of Wyomissing. “While it is easy to focus on the deals that may be offered at various communities, it is important not to lose focus on what matters most-the resident.”
So, other than cost of retirement communities, what are other decision-making factors?
Quality Care
Understanding the levels of care that are available in a community is important for future-planning. It may be important to the resident that he or she has the ability to age-in-place, have access to multiple supports if and when they are needed or guidance in navigating pre-existing conditions or a new diagnosis.
Staffing Structures
Having awareness of the they are staffed may bring peace of mind knowing the residents’ well-being is priority. For example, do they have a lot of open positions? Who is on-site caring for residents on nights, weekends and holidays? Also, seeking to understand the hiring qualifications and training requirements are also good questions to ask to ensure the staff is equipped to handle any need.
At Country Meadows, we pride ourselves on the tenure of our co-workers. At all our communities, we have long-time co-workers with decades worth of service. These employees bring continuity of care to our residents and are examples of the positive work environment which leads to a positive experience for the residents.
Facilities and Services
Assisted living communities are home to residents and they expect all the comforts. This includes the quality and style of food served, the style of apartments available and welcoming nature of the common areas. Between fitness classes, activities or even on-site salon services, it is important to get a full picture of how a resident spends their day. (Which, at Country Meadows, can be very busy!)
Location
Is the campus close to family and friends? Is it located near churches or familiar shopping experiences? Is it in a safe neighborhood? Is it near doctors’ offices, pharmacies or hospitals? Answers to these questions can also bring peace of mind but also allow for an easier transition upon move in because there is already familiarity and comfort in the area.
Environment
A welcoming and supportive culture translates into the quality of care and what life is really like in the community. Seeing co-worker and resident interactions and resident friendships shows that meaningful connections are possible and could address any fears and anxieties of loneliness and isolation.
Reviews
No better way to learn about the reputation of an assisted living community than through the residents, families and co-workers who are sharing their direct experience through online reviews and testimonials. Compare your options using websites such as Google Reviews, Glassdoor or the community’s social media channels that paint the picture of what it is like to live and work there.
We help you learn about the cost of retirement communities
In all of our communities, our advisors help prospective residents and families navigate the decision-making journey — including understanding the cost of retirement. Plus, we have helpful resources to guide families in their searches. We have found that setting foot on campus helps make the decision so we encourage planning a visit and taking a tour. The goal is to allow our guests to get a feel for the community, see themselves here and experience what life is like-something that can’t be fully understood from a pricing sheet.
“I often use myself as an example in speaking with prospective families as I also have had family members receive various levels of care in assisted living communities,” explained Sue. “I want to help people understand that what they are looking for the best way of life for their loved one. It’s in these tours that they can get questions answered in real time by those who call Country Meadows home.”
If you are just starting your research or already working through your own pro-con list we are here to help. Contact us to speak to and expert advisor or schedule a personalized tour to learn more about assisted living, independent living and memory support services available at Country Meadows Retirement Communities. We look forward to meeting you!
