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Making the move to assisted living is a major event and may cause a variety of questions and emotions to arise. With so many options available, you may wonder where to begin and how to make a decision. It is helpful if you start early and create a plan to ensure everyone is on the same page and that your needs will be met. The five steps below will help you choose the right assisted living community in Memphis.
Step 1: Know Your Needs
Understanding your needs is an important first step in this process. Make a list of the type of care you need, and be sure the community can support you now and in the future. Assisted living communities can help with daily living, such as cleaning, cooking, and medical needs. You can maintain the lifestyle and amenities important to you with the benefit of added care and assistance to keep you comfortable.
Step 2: Location, Location, Location
The location of your assisted living community should be very important. You may live near your family and want to maintain continuity with them and your community. Or, on the flip side, you may live out of state and are considering relocating to be closer to family and caregivers. Therefore it is important to think about location and how this may benefit you in the long run. It may be more convenient to be closer to loved ones, so you may choose a location based on that need.
Step 3: Meals, Amenities, and Activities
The food you eat, the comforts you expect and how you enjoy your time should all be very important factors in your decision.
Most communities will allow you to experience the taste and atmosphere of their food during a meal. If you have dietary restrictions or need accommodations will want to find a community whose chefs take inspiration from your unique considerations in each menu.
As far as amenities, many assisted living communities offer plenty of common spaces, such as living rooms, libraries, and clubhouses. However, you do not need to sacrifice if you are looking for additional options such as a pool, beauty salon, spa, fitness center, professional gardens/courtyard, or even pet-friendly accommodations.
Activities within a community create opportunities to elevate your life, and the events, trips, and activities should create excitement for residents. Get to know the activities offered because being involved will help you connect with others and feel more at home.
Be sure to ask about these important factors, especially when you are on a tour.
Step 4: Medical Needs and Rehabilitation
Your medical requirements will be important to determine if the community can provide the support you need. Having extra support means having help when you need it. Questions you may want to consider include:
- How are medications managed and dispensed?
- Is this community equipped to handle any conditions I have?
- If future complications or new conditions arise, can I be supported here?
- Does the community offer rehabilitation services or physical therapy?
Step 5: Visit the Community
No matter what you see online, nothing can replace a visit to really understand what a community feels like. Each is as unique as you are, and walking through a community will allow you to truly assess if it meets your needs and preferences. Trust your instincts when you are visiting, and take time to notice if it “feels right.”
As it comes time to narrow down your choices, remember that you know yourself best, so trust your feelings. When it comes to choosing the right assisted living community in Memphis, when you find one that fits your needs and preferences and creates a sense of comfort while visiting, it may be the right choice for you.
Opus East Memphis is a senior living community in Memphis, TN offering exceptional care in assisted living and memory care. Please call 901-763-8485 to learn more today!
