When families and seniors start the search for a local senior living in Fairfax County, VA, it is a life-changing decision. Fortunately, the decision of where to place your loved one becomes much easier with knowledge and assistance from experts.
Here are the pitfalls and how to avoid them:
1. Not Being Realistic About Your Loved One’s Current and Future Needs: When it comes down to choosing the best facility for your parent or loved one, it’s important to be realistic. Think not only about his or her current needs but what he or she might need in the future as he or she ages. Moving frequently is not only costly but also difficult on your senior.
2. Judging a Book by its Cover: Never assume that high costs and lavish features equals quality local senior living care. A beautiful facility is just as prone to errors and oversights as any other. Ask questions about seniors’ routines, activities, and care before making a decision.
3. Matching Your Taste Instead of Your Parent’s: It’s common for adult children to choose senior living that they would most enjoy instead of thinking of the interests of their loved one. When possible, involve your loved one in the decision-making process.
4. Making a Decision Too Quickly: Visit at least three communities before making a decision to get a clear comparison on what kind of local senior living options are available and how they differ from one another.
5. Not Reading the Fine Print: Make sure that you understand everything in your contract, such as payment structures and what all that it includes. Ensure that this fits well within your budget.
6. Going at it Alone: Places such as Oasis Senior Advisors – Fairfax County can help you compare properties and make placement recommendations that fit your senior’s budget as well as his or her current and future needs. You can follow them on Google+ for more information.
