What to Consider Now Before Moving a Parent into a Senior Living Community

The decision to move a parent to a senior living community is more difficult than ever due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Before this virus, most seniors preferred to stay in their own homes. Now that the risk of COVID-19 exposure has gone up in these communities, families are facing the emotional decision to consider the unique needs of the individual – while also weighing the pros and cons of this move.

Long Term Care and COVID-19

Here are a few of the current happenings in senior living communities to protect patients and staff against COVID-19:

• New Residents: Some communities put a temporary hold on welcoming new residents into the building. If it’s the right timing to move a parent into a home with more support, there might be a bit of delay in this transition, depending on the policies and practices of the company. Additionally, new residents might be required to quarantine in their apartment for two weeks after moving in.
• Health Practices: It is essential to talk to the community director to learn more about safety practices to manage exposure. According to recent data, approximately 43% of all U.S. COVID-19 deaths have occurred in nursing homes and long-term care communities. If assisted living is the best solution for your parent right now, then it is essential to ask questions about safety and health practices – including testing protocols, staff and resident monitoring, and history of COVID-19 cases in the building.
• Visiting Family: Another consideration is access to visit family members living in long-term care. Many locations have limited in-person visits, which means that the only access to see a loved one is through a window or by using technology. 
• Independent Living: Eventually, a loved one might reach the point of needing ongoing support for medication management, hygiene, meal preparation, transportation, and more. If the person has reached the stage where independence is no longer an option, then you are facing the immediate decision of in-home care vs. moving them to a long-term care location.
  

Our team at Greenwald & Gerke understands the unique challenges people face when it is time to consider in-home care or senior living options. As you are weighing these decisions, we are here to help you create an optimal plan. For more information about these comprehensive retirement services, call our team to discuss your goals: (844) 782-9674.