The Three Critical Things Most Families Miss When
They Choose an Assisted Living Residence
(PRWEB) July 6, 2005 -- With many vacation visits home ending
in a desperate search for assisted living alternatives for
older loved ones, family care consultant Molly Shomer suggests
that families often fail to check out the most important things.
Taking a tour and sampling the food won't substitute for skipping
the three critical things every family should do before they
make a final assisted living selection for an older loved
one.
1. Review the contract and admission documents before move-in
day. When the moving van is idling and your mother is sitting
in the lobby it's too late to ask important questions. Have
the contract thoroughly reviewed ahead of time by someone
who understands assisted living.
2. Ask for an "assessment and care plan" for your
elder before signing an assisted living contract. What you
pay will usually be based on the amount and kind of care provided.
Know exactly what the facility will be doing for your elder.
Even more important, know what will bump up the price later
before you make a commitment.
3. Understand what will trigger a request that your elder
move out, and how the appeal process works. Not all behaviors
or medical conditions can be managed in an assisted living
setting.
Many families feeling desperate for help don't know that they
may be able to avoid making a rushed selection. Many assisted
living residences will permit a prospective resident to "try
out" the facility for a week or two without a long-term
contract. This is a perfect opportunity for an elder to receive
needed care while the family takes the time they need to make
the right decision.
About Molly Shomer
With regular doses of information, resources and support Molly
specializes in helping the children of aging adults reduce
the often overwhelming stress of caring for aging parents.
She is the author of "The Insider's Guide To Assisted
Living," where families can find in-depth information
about everything they need to know before they sign an assisted
living contract. She is nationally recognized as the publisher
and "Head Coach" of The Eldercare Team informational
site at www.eldercareteam.com.
Company Name: THE ELDERCARE TEAM
Website: http://www.eldercareteam.com
