If you’re in the sandwich generation, you might be facing the possibility of having to choose a long-term care facility for your aging parents, such as a nursing home. If not right now, it may be something you have to consider in the next few years.
While aging in place is the preference for most people, it can be a costly or stressful option. Having a personal support worker can be expensive, and you may find yourself constantly worrying about how your frail parents are doing living on their own with little help, says fortune.com.
If you’re looking for a nursing home or assisted living facility for your aging parent, navigating the process of finding the right one for them can seem daunting. Here are some tips from fortune.com to help you find the best one for their needs.
Start by asking for referrals and going for a visit. Ask your friends and colleagues if they have recommendations; positive word of mouth is a great place to start. Once you have a few spots that have been recommended, research them online and schedule a visit. Visiting in person with your parents for a tour will give you a chance to meet the staff and get a sense of what the living arrangements are like. Make a list of questions in advance so that you get as much information as you need.
Check their reviews. You don’t make such a major decision without checking their references and reviews. Research any agencies that maintain reports and reviews for these types of facilities. In the U.S., for example, they’re certified by Medicair and Medicaid.
For more on what types of questions you should ask when visiting a nursing home, along with advice on the conversations you need to be having as a family, read the full fortune.com article here.
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