In our previous article, we discussed the types of disabilities that many seniors face and the challenges of living alone with these conditions. We also suggested that assisted living might be an excellent solution for adults with disabilities who need physical or emotional support. Today, we are going to explore those features and amenities you should look for when choosing the right assisted living facility for your loved one.

Adults with disabilities must take special care to guarantee the facility they choose has adequate accommodations to provide sufficient care for their specific situation. Here are some things to ask when searching for the right care option for you or a loved one.

Intellectual Disabilities

Seniors who have intellectual disabilities often need support from specially trained staff, as well as a properly secured facility. These elements may include:

  • Memory/dementia support, memory care unit
  • Routinely scheduled care plan assessments
  • Security measures in place, such as secured units to prevent wandering, protected and enclosed outdoor areas, and 24-hour supervision
  • Support peer groups and opportunities for meaningful social engagement

Sensory Disabilities

Seniors with sensory disabilities may require:

  • Adjustable light fixtures for individuals with sensory processing or vision issues
  • Designated quiet rooms
  • Activities that will not overstimulate
  • Staff who are experienced in working with adults experiencing vision or hearing loss
  • Permission to provide their own bedding, furniture, and decor

Physical Disabilities

Physical challenges typically require residences designed to accommodate adults with disabilities. These may include:

  • Wheelchair ramps and extra-wide hallways/entryways to facilitate wheelchair and walker use
  • Grab bars along hallways and in resident apartments
  • Caregivers who are physically capable of performing transfers to and from bed
  • Lower counters, tables, and furniture to be accessible from a wheelchair
  • Transportation to and from doctor’s appointments
  • Onsite nursing or medical staff
  • Regular evaluations and assessments of care plans

Mental Disabilities

Seniors who have mental disabilities often have a difficult time regulating their emotions and behavior. Features to look for in an assisted living facility for these individuals include:

  • In-house trained psychological staff
  • Soothing activities such as yoga, meditation, or art and music therapy to promote serenity
  • Peer support groups and appropriate socialization opportunities

Selecting an Assisted Living Residence for Adults with Disabilities

There are many assisted living facilities in the area that provide quality care. For most families, touring the facility and asking the right questions will prove to be the deciding factor as to which community is right for them.

When considering possible assisted living facilities, prepare a list of questions to ask the staff and administration to ensure the facility will be able to accommodate your distinct situation.

  • Do your personnel have experience caring for senior adults with this specific disability?
  • What accommodations has your community made to assist seniors with this disability?
  • Do you have in-house, onsite, or round-the-clock nursing or medical staff?
  • Do you have in-house or on-call psychological/mental health professionals on staff?
  • What programs have been implemented to safeguard the mental well-being of those who live here?
  • What does the normal day look like for residents?
  • What activities are typically offered for participation?
  • Is transportation included when residents have an appointment off-site? How is it scheduled?
  • Does your community offer any resident support groups?
  • Are apartments designed with wheelchairs or other specialty equipment in mind?

You Can Trust My Care Finders

My Care Finders is a professional senior placement service offering expert guidance FREE OF CHARGE to the families we work with. Because we have done all the research, we can help you to more quickly and accurately narrow your search to those communities best suited for your needs or the needs of your loved one.

Don’t go it alone – call us today to get started. Remember, there is no cost for our expertise.