Helpful Tips to Find a Retirement Community for Your Parents/Loved One
Published on August 23, 2019
If you’re searching for a retirement community for your parents or loved one, you know what a significant and life-changing decision it is. You also know that there are many options to consider—from the location, to the amenities on site, to the level of care provided by the staff. The community you and your parents choose will ultimately impact the retirement years of your loved ones, so it’s a smart idea to take your time and ensure you are choosing the best possible options for them. To avoid making common mistakes, here are some important things to keep in mind when choosing a retirement home for your parents.
Tip #1: Start Your Retirement Community Search Early
Rushing a decision because of a time crunch is not the best way to secure your parents in a retirement home or assisted living community. Unless a health concern or injury requires you to begin searching in an emergency, it is best to begin planning this move as far in advance as you can. You should visit at least three communities before making a decision. Get a clear idea of what options are available and what makes each community stand out. To make the best possible choice, you need to understand your options.
Tip #2: Place a Lower Emphasis on Location and Proximity to You
It may be your intention to move your parents into the community that is closest to you; however, this can be a disadvantage. If there are better options a bit further away, you should still consider them. Depending on the community you choose, your parents will have the opportunity to socialize, make new friends, and enjoy activities they love or want to try. The point is to find a community where your loved ones can thrive and be self-sufficient, so that you don’t have to check in daily to make sure they are okay. While it’s nice to be close to your parents, if you choose a community that supports its Community Members well, you’ll have peace of mind knowing they are in good hands.
Tip #3: Ensure the Retirement Community Matches Your Parents Tastes and Needs
An easy mistake to make when choosing a place for your parents to retire is looking for a place that matches your tastes instead of theirs. For example, you may find the heated swimming pool an excellent feature, but your parents have no interest in swimming. Although you are part of the decision-making process, keep in mind that your parents will be living there—not you—so you should prioritize their needs and interests first and foremost.
Tip #4: Consider Their Future Needs before Deciding on a Permanent Move
Before recommending a place for your parents to move into, be realistic about what their current and future needs are/will be. Too often, adult children prefer residences that are appropriate for their parents now, but not down the road. Be sure to consider a community with the capabilities and services to handle the future needs of your parents.
Tip #5: Involve Other Members of the Family for Their Insights and Advice
Another easy mistake to make is to recommend a retirement community for your parents without the input of other family members. Even if you are the one taking the initiative for their retirement care, you should still gather various perspectives to help you make the most informed decision possible. Choosing a retirement community is a big decision, and you can learn from other relatives who might have gone through the same process.
Tip #6: Read the Fine Print and Understand the Costs
Before signing any agreements, be sure to fully understand what you are agreeing to, and that you are aware of all the costs. The good news is that retirement homes in Ontario are required to provide the lease contract and Care Home Information Package (“C.H.I.P.”) prior to anyone moving in. However, you should pay attention to any legal jargon or additional fees that aren’t obvious. You can speak with trusted friends and family to compare communities and prices, and if you have any questions, be sure to the representative at the community.
Tip #7: Book a Tour or Trial Stay of the Community
One benefit that many retirement communities offer is the opportunity to book a tour or trial stay to see what it’s like to live in the prospective community. A tour is a great way to meet the staff and some of the Community Members to find out if the environment feels right for your loved one. If you still aren’t sure a specific location is right, booking a trial stay can help you see what’s available to them and help you justify the cost. You can try out the various social activities, test the level of care and security, and get to know some of the other residents.
Choose V!VA Retirement Communities for Your Parents
While there are many options to choose from, V!VA Retirement Communities is the right place for your loved one when it comes to quality of life in retirement! We strive to create a social community where our Community Members can thrive, and offer a safe, trustworthy environment in which they can build meaningful friendships. Our Team Members care about our Community Members and as they perform their unique roles, they abide by our Orange Dot Values to make sure everyone feels welcome, safe, and cared for. We offer quality healthcare services, one-of-a-kind amenities and activities, unique social opportunities, reliable transportation, restaurant-quality dining, exercise classes and sports, and so much more.
As one of the few strong and successful privately-owned and independent developers in the senior living field, we have locations in Barrhaven, Mississauga, Pickering, Thornhill Woods as well as Ancaster, Carleton Place, Oakville and Whitby.
To learn more about our retirement living options and to find out if V!VA Retirement Communities is right for you or your loved one, e-mail us at info@vivalife.ca or call us at 1-888-984-8482.
