Moving to a retirement home is a major change for your loved one. To make the move as positive and beneficial as possible, you need to choose a place that's a good fit for your family’s situation and the senior’s needs. Here are a few tips to help you consider all the important aspects of this decision.

Do:

Discuss priorities.

Your loved one needs to have a say in where they're going and what's important to them in a retirement home. They might want a location close to family, or require specific amenities like libraries, salons, craft rooms, and outdoor space. Also, go over the kind of medical and personal care they need. Make a list of all the features to look for and decide which of these items need to be prioritized.

Plan for the future.

Existing health issues are likely to get more serious as your loved one gets older, which will change their care needs. Look for a retirement home that offers different levels of care, or creates a personalized plan for each resident. This way, your loved one can enjoy independent living now, while still having their needs met in the future.

Don't:

Choose without touring.

Once you and your loved one have narrowed down the options, visit the retirement homes you're looking at together. Going to the facilities may help your loved one get a sense of the community and meet the people they'd be spending their senior years with. It also gives you a chance to look over the rooms and grounds to make sure they match your expectations.

Be afraid to ask questions.

When you're making arrangements with the nursing home staff and having your tour, ask about the factors that might influence your decision. Don't be shy about discussing rates, specific health issues your loved one will need help with, the qualifications of the staff, and anything else that concerns you. The more information you have, the better the decisions you'll make.

As you consider retirement homes in King County, make sure to contact Red Oak Residence. Based in North Bend, WA, they offer 24/7 care tailored to each resident's individual needs. Their center has spacious apartments and amenities including private baths, outdoor leisure areas, basic extended cable, and weekly housekeeping. Learn more about their facility’s features online or call (425) 888-7108 to schedule a tour.