The process of finding a senior’s residence is not always an easy task. Whether you are looking for yourself or for an elderly relative, you will want to make the best decision possible. To fully enjoy life and retirement, the search will be focused on finding a residence for seniors that is best suited to the person’s needs. In order to help you in your search, we have listed below 5 common mistakes to avoid when looking for a seniors’ residence that meets your needs and expectations.
Mistake #1 : Not taking enough time before making a decision
Unfortunately, the decision of moving into a seniors’ residence is not always a planned one. The unfortunate onset of a new health problem or the aggravation of an already existing medical condition can lead to a decision to move to a senior’s residence too quickly.
However, rushing this decision is a mistake that should be avoided. Because it may lead to wrong decisions. In order to stay away from these problems, as much as possible, here are some recommendations.
- Try to initiate early discussions about the future with your elderly parents, while they have the full capacity to make an informed decision ;
- Plan and consider various scenarios ;
- Take the time to visit several residences in order to be able to compare the different options ;
- Seek advice from family and other trusted close friends, to help you make the best decision possible.
If an urgent situation requires you to quickly find a seniors’ residence, for you or a beloved relative, Visavie’s housing counselors can assist you in your search. With a professional and caring approach, you can rely on their experience and expertise. They will help you avoid the risks associated with acting too quickly, for the well-being of your elderly loved one.
Mistake #2 : Not taking into account your real needs when choosing a seniors’ residence
While searching for a seniors’ residence, the analysis of the individual’s needs is probably the most important step. Not taking the time to consider them enough would be a mistake !
The first step is to make a detailed list of all the actual needs :
- assistance in daily tasks ;
- health condition ;
- degree of care required based on the individual’s level of autonomy ;
- the need for the location of the residence to be close to the senior’s family ;
- etc.
In the search for a seniors’ residence, understanding the current needs is a priority. However, it is also essential to consider the future needs. When you choose a retirement living environment, it’s natural to expect to stay in that same place for as long as possible, while feeling comfortable. By anticipating your future needs, in the short and medium term, it is possible to find a retirement home that offers services that can evolve with your condition.
Mistake #3 : Not taking the time to visit the residences
Can you imagine buying a new house without visiting it first ? The same goes when choosing a seniors’ residence. Visiting the different residences in person is the most effective way to compare them. By doing so, it then becomes possible to choose the one that is best adapted to the needs and preferences of the senior.
Visits to the residences represent a great opportunity to really feel the atmosphere of the place and to see if you are most likely to feel comfortable there. It is also a perfect occasion to meet the staff but also the other residents living there, so that you can ask them all the questions you may have.
When visiting the properties, do not hesitate to ask to be accompanied. It can either be by a trusted family member, or by one of our Visavie’s housing counselors.
Mistake #4 : To consider only one factor when making a decision
In the search for a good seniors’ residence, several factors should be considered in order to make the best decision. The objective is to find the living environment that will best meet your needs and expectations. It is therefore a mistake to base your decision on only one of these points, forgetting the others.
In order to help you make the right choice, here is a short list of criteria to take into consideration when looking for residences :
- the budget ;
- the location of the residence (close to the family for example) ;
- the different types of services available on site;
- the diversity of social and recreational activities;
- the kind of care offered, adapted to the person’s needs ;
- your feeling about the place ;
- and much more, depending on the specific needs and preferences of each resident.
Mistake #5 : Searching for a seniors’ residence alone, without any help
The search for a retirement home is an important step in the life of an elderly person. Doing all the searches alone, without any outside help, is certainly not necessary. We strongly recommend that you surround yourself with good support. And to take advantage of all this help. Do not hesitate to ask for advice from your family, as well as from close friends. They know you well and can give you their opinions.
At all times, you can also benefit from the assistance of a counselor who specializes in the search for seniors’ residences. Free and available on a 24/7 basis, this support allows you to take advantage of the expertise and experience of our caring advisors.
Do not hesitate to contact a Visavie’s counselor in your area. Together, we will work to optimize your search for the perfect senior’s residence, the one that best suits your needs.
