| Life consists of many passages and transformations: | | | | of a pet, or the ability to continue a beloved hobby, |
| we begin schooling; we leave home to make lives of | | | | might be the overriding factor which guides the |
| our own; we move in search of new opportunities; | | | | decision-making process. It is important to take stock |
| and we retire from business activity. All of these | | | | of the senior's real needs and try to maintain |
| changes in our responsibilities and roles present us | | | | continuity when this is possible. Another important |
| with challenges which necessitate making important | | | | point to consider is the convenience of the facility's |
| new decisions. Senior citizens must take into account | | | | location; its visiting hours; its visiting areas; its food; |
| their own individual needs when considering options | | | | recreational and religious activities available; safety |
| such as independent versus assisted living Illinois - | | | | and security; as well as the types of care available. |
| such as changes in their physical functioning, their | | | | It's a good idea after taking the standard tour to |
| mental abilities, their life interests, their financial | | | | drop in unexpectedly later to see if there is any |
| capabilities, and the social support available to them. | | | | difference. Don't be afraid to return as often as |
| All of these factors affect what kind of place is the | | | | necessary to get all the information you need and all |
| most appropriate and where the senior will ultimately | | | | of the answers to your questions. |
| be the most happy and content. Because making | | | | Often there may be difficulty in finding a good |
| good decisions about where a senior will live is so | | | | balance between quality and cost. Ask about state or |
| important, it should be planned with anticipation rather | | | | federal financial assistance that might be available. |
| than left until a crisis occurs. Good decisions are made | | | | Ask what the Chicagoland assisted living facility's |
| when there is plenty of time to look around, ask | | | | policy is in case the senior's savings or available funds |
| questions, and discuss with friends and relatives the | | | | run out. These sorts of questions might embarrass |
| various options. It is very important to be honest and | | | | you, but those who work in senior facilities can deal |
| open about what is absolutely necessary or desired; | | | | with them. They might even be able to suggest |
| and what can be compromised on or negotiated. | | | | programs which the senior can qualify for. Also, the |
| Seniors used to independent retirement living might | | | | type or level of care which is needed can change or |
| prefer smaller, home style residences which give | | | | fluctuate; this must also be considered and inquired |
| individual care and attention; but this might be hated | | | | about. |
| by another type of person. Sometimes the presence | | | | |