Watching a loved one with Alzheimer’s or a similar condition can be depressing, frustrating, and overwhelming. Assisted living in St. Petersburg, FL, will help you shoulder some of the difficulties you both may face. These centers will give you peace of mind as they keep your loved one safe, secure, and provided for.
With that being said, it’s essential to find the right memory care community for the situation. A mistake in the inquiry process can lead to problems down the road. If you’re looking for a new home for your loved one, avoid making these common mistakes:
Failing to Ask the Right Questions
As you search for a memory care center, try changing your perspective. Looking at the situation from every angle and asking plenty of questions about assisted living in St. Petersburg, FL, will help you avoid an unfortunate situation.
We recommend that you ask these questions as a starting point to your search for skilled nursing facilities in St. Petersburg, FL.
Is There a Medical Director on Staff?
You want around-the-clock security for your loved one because medical emergencies can strike at any time. Get familiar with the community’s medical staff and make special inquiries about a medical director.
On that same note, find out about additional medical staff and equipment. Is the facility able to perform labs, therapy, and X-rays onsite?
What Activities Are Available?
What kind of quality of life can your loved one expect at a memory care facility? A big factor will be the kind of activities provided. If your family member can play games, do crafts, and make friends, they’ll be much more likely to enjoy their time at a memory care center.
Are the Rooms Semi-Private or Private?
If privacy is important for your loved one, make sure to check the status of their potential room. Having their own space will allow your loved ones to feel more relaxed and at home in the facility.
What Is the Policy for Emergencies?
You may want to move your loved one to a facility so that they have immediate care in an emergency. With that in mind, make sure to ask about emergency procedures and make sure you are comfortable with how these incidents are handled.
Not Taking a Tour of the Facility
Taking a tour of a potential facility will tell you everything you need to know about whether it’s a good fit for your loved one. While you’re touring the place, check out the layout. Is it easy to maneuver?
You should also take the time to observe how staff members treat residents. You want your loved one to receive compassion and attention. While you’re there, sample the food, talk to other residents, and participate in activities. Getting a feel for the vibe of the center will tell you if your loved one will feel at home there.
Ignoring the “Comprehensive Costs” Topic
Before you finish your tour, make sure to ask about all of the costs. Do the standard fees cover housekeeping, nutrition, and medical care, or are those services add-ons? Obviously, you don’t want to commit to a center that is outside of your means. So don’t make the common mistake of failing to calculate all of the costs of memory care in St. Petersburg, FL.
