Not all senior living is built the same. If you or a loved one is planning on making the move to a retirement village in Jenks, OK, it is important to know the difference between the types of retirement communities and how to discern what is right for you or your loved one. Here are some tips to help you choose the right community for you or your loved one. After all, it is going to be where you or your loved one is staying for an extended period, so make your choices wisely!
Know Your Needs
To choose the right community for you, it is crucial to know your expectations. Start by listing what you or your loved one wants out of the community. Think not just about the services and support you need now, but what you might potentially need in the future. You should also establish how much you would like to be spending on the monthly fees for senior living. Take note that many of the current expenses needed to maintain your home will be included in these fees so you take that into account when comparing your budget now and your budget for the move. Afterward, you will have to decide on a location. Do you want to stay close to where you live now? Or is being near a hospital or close to your family more important?
Read Online Reviews
After finding a few communities that tick all your boxes, it is important to read what current and previous residents and their families have to say about them. Try to find an independent source outside of the community webpage to get the most accurate and reliable reviews. Facebook can also be an easy and great tool. Look up the community page on Facebook and look through the photos and comments to learn as much as you can about programs, activities, lifestyle, dining, and residents.
Ask Around
Similarly, it can be beneficial to consult someone else who has been through the process, whether for themselves or on behalf of a loved one. Otherwise, a trusted family physician or clergy member can be helpful in providing useful information as well.
Schedule a Visit
The best way to evaluate a retirement village is to visit it in person. Go prepared with a list of questions based on your needs, budgets, desires, and other important clarifications you might need from the community. Here is a list of some things you should look out for when visiting:
- The interaction between team members and residents – Is it friendly or professional?
- The behavior of residents. Are they engaged or disinterested?
- Are they safety features in place? E.g handrails, emergency call systems, anti-slip mats
- Are the areas clean and the decor up to date?
Lastly, it is important to ask yourself if you can see yourself living here long term. Consider bringing a close friend or relative to help you along with the observation and the decision-making. Remember that you can always visit a community more than once to ensure that you truly enjoy them and to observe what it might be like during different times of the day or seasons.
Here at our retirement community, we guarantee only the best quality care for you or your loved one. If you or your loved one is planning on moving to a senior living in Jenks, OK feel free to contact us or schedule a visit with us today!
