Transitioning from a home to a senior living community can be challenging for seniors, but care management services can help make the process smoother. Learn more in this blog post from Waverly Connect.
This blog shares Sharon and John’s story about the move from their home to a senior living apartment. Learn more about the process and how Waverly Connect provides guidance, support, and resources for placement assistance.
From Home to Senior Living: Sharon and John’s Story
The weather cooperated, with snow coming just in time for Christmas Day. Sharon and John looked forward to a white Christmas every year.
The family was due to arrive in a couple of days, so Sharon was busy cooking and decorating. They loved hosting, decorating, and spending time with the family, especially the grandchildren, who were growing so quickly.
The dinner menu would be simple this year: honey-baked ham, scalloped potatoes, and green beans. One of the kids would bring rolls and drinks, and the other would bring the pies.
John and Sharon had raised two daughters. When the girls and their parents got together, it made for great conversations and trips down memory lane. Their grandchildren were growing and preparing for their future. They loved to gather, hear their parents tell stories, and then laugh when Sharon and John shared their input about what really happened.
This year was going to be different. John and Sharon had downsized a few months ago. The house still hadn’t sold, which is okay because it took them a long time to process the contents and sort all their belongings.
Their new apartment was in a senior living community near their home. The apartment was spacious, with two bedrooms, a den, and two bathrooms. The grounds were perfectly landscaped, and walking paths wound through various gardens, such as the rose garden and the fruit tree garden. The kitchen had plenty of room for Sharon to cook, and it overlooked the family room so she could keep up with the happenings.
Using Care Management Services for the Move
A friend referred Sharon and John to Waverly Connect care management services. They officially needed to make a change due to John’s recent difficulty getting around. He needed to give up the maintenance of his home, and the stairs became a safety issue.
Their care manager was instrumental in facilitating this transition, guiding them and the family to their new normal.
Why choose Waverly Connect? >>
Thanks to the family’s closeness and understanding of each other, new traditions were already in place. The youngsters went sledding and built snowmen. John was able to get a snowball or two thrown from the porch. His grandson had made up a few snowballs for him and strategically placed them so John could participate.
Thanks to the work with their care manager, Sharon and John did not have to worry about how they would get through the holiday and the new year. They knew they needed the help and could not keep up with the home, including the expectations and holiday traditions.
They were aging and needed a professional to guide them through the available options. Health was their number one concern, and safety was second. Their care manager assisted them in finding an estate sales group that helped them go through their home, sell items that could be sold, donate items, hold a couple of garage sales, and organize what was left to arrange in the new apartment.
Tips on Finding the Right Senior Living Community for You
When searching for a senior living community, consider the following tips to find the right community for you or a loved one:
- Assess Your Needs: Determine what level of care is needed: independent living, assisted living, memory care, or skilled nursing.
- Consider Location: Look for a community in a preferred geographical area close to family, friends, or amenities.
- Visit Communities: Schedule tours to get a feel for the environment, staff, and residents. Observe cleanliness, safety features, and overall atmosphere.
- Evaluate Costs: Understand all costs involved, including housing, care, and additional services, and compare them with your budget.
- Check Amenities and Services: Ensure the community offers activities, amenities, and services that align with your interests and lifestyle.
- Read Reviews and Complaints: Research and consider feedback from current and past residents and their families.
- Understand the Contract: Review contracts carefully for details about services, fees, and the process for transferring to a different care level if needed.
- Plan for the Future: Choose a community that can accommodate changing health needs without requiring a move.
- Talk to Residents: Speak with current residents to gain insights into their experiences and satisfaction levels.
- Seek Professional Advice: Consult with a geriatric care manager or eldercare advisor for professional guidance in making the right choice.
Are geriatric care managers worth the money? >>
Contact Waverly Connect for a Smooth Transition to Senior Living
When a different living environment like senior living is needed, our dedicated Waverly Connect care management team can help families find the appropriate community to meet their loved one’s needs.
Care managers will assess their strengths, challenges, and needs while identifying medical, emotional, or cognitive concerns. Our team always works in the individual’s best interests, and we do not accept any referral fees from the communities we recommend.
Moreover, we are committed to providing ongoing professional monitoring to ensure that your loved one always has the support of a skilled advocate with extensive experience in senior care.
