Top 4 Questions Googled About Senior Living

When you start to realize a parent might need more care, you’ll likely turn to Google for answers. A quick search for "assisted living" often reveals common prompts like:

• Assisted living facilities near me
• Assisted living vs. nursing home

Before long, you’ve gone from curious to scheduling tours. But what should you know before that first visit? We’re here to answer the top four questions people Google about senior living.

1. What’s the difference between independent living, assisted living, and memory care?

Senior living communities vary in offerings: some combine independent living, assisted living, and memory care under one roof, while others specialize.

• Independent living suits seniors who want community and convenience but don’t need daily care.
• Assisted living adds support with tasks like bathing or medication management while promoting independence.
• Memory care specializes in creating safe, nurturing environments for residents with dementia.

If you know that you’re loved one will have difficulty transitioning, be mindful of how many moves they will have to make. It might be best to consider a community where they can transition from Independent Living to Assisted Living without moving apartments.

2. When is the right time to move into a senior living community?

There’s no perfect time, but there are signs to watch for:

• Isolation: Has your parent’s social circle shrunk?
• Dining: Are meals becoming less nutritious or infrequent?
• Safety: Has there been a fall or other mobility concerns?

The best time to move is before an emergency, allowing for a smoother transition. For those with dementia, consider the “window of opportunity” to move while it’s easier for them to adjust. Read our blog, When to Move to Memory Care – The Window of Opportunity, to learn about the best times to move into a memory care community.

3. What services do senior living communities offer?

Senior living focuses on care, engagement, and dining:

• Care: Assistance with daily tasks, like dressing and bathing, based on an individualized care plan.
• Engagement: Activities like fitness classes, museum trips, and social events that help residents stay active and connected.
• Dining: Nutritious meals served daily—at Northbridge, these include local ingredients and fresh New England flavors!

4. What questions should I ask when touring a community?

Here are four key topics to explore:

• Accessibility: Are common areas easily accessible from all apartments?
• Care: What care therapy services are offered, and do they come to the community? Or will your loved one need to leave to receive the services?
• Staff: Observe interactions between staff and residents. Are they engaged and supported? What trainings do they receive and how often?
• Programming: Is the activity calendar diverse and meaningful to your loved one’s interests?

We’ve asked our family members to share insight on what they wish they knew when visiting a community for the first time, check out our blog – 4 Topics to Consider when Choosing a Senior Living Community.

We hope this helps cut through the overwhelm of Googling! Remember, you don’t have to navigate senior living alone—reach out to friends, family, or senior living professionals for advice. Our team is always here to help.

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