The decision to move a loved one into a Residential Care Facility for the Elderly (RCFE) is never an easy one. Once that difficult decision has been made you then have to deal with the challenge of figuring out which RCFE is ultimately the best choice. With our extensive experience in the RCFE field, we recognize that there are certain common concerns that families often have when selecting a facility. It is those concerns that we will delve into here.
1. Overall Quality of Care and Resident Experience
Among the most important concerns and considerations for families is the quality of care that their loved ones will receive at the RCFE. To the best of your ability, you want to make sure that your family member will consistently have his or her various physical, mental, and emotional needs met in this new residential environment. Start researching each RCFE option as thoroughly as possible by carefully exploring their website, and reading through as many online reviews as you can find to begin getting a sense of the quality of care provided. It is also a good idea to reach out to friends, colleagues, and anyone else you trust that has been in a similar situation and can make some informed recommendations.
Once you have one or more facilities picked out that could work, you will want to visit them all in person. Tour each one to get a sense of how it operates, and speak with staff members to get a better idea of what the day-to-day experience would likely be for your loved one. Be sure that the staff satisfactorily answer all questions you have, and get a feel for whether they are the right group to manage everything that your family member requires. As opportunities for recreation and socializing are also critical for your loved one’s overall well-being, it is a good idea to find out what is available in terms of engaging group activities.
2. Managing the Cost
RCFEs can vary quite significantly in terms of immediate and ongoing expenses. You should first figure out a feasible budget, and then compare costs between the different facilities you’re considering. Keep in mind that you will want to include all added costs, including those for transportation or any extra services. While moving your loved one to an RCFE can be an expensive proposition, there are things that can help make the financial commitment work. For some useful tips in this regard, please take a look at our post on the Best Ways to Afford Living at an RCFE.
3. Location, Location, Location
Another important concern is the geographic location of the RCFE itself. If the facility is too great a distance from family and friends leading to limited visitation, your loved one may end up feeling quite isolated and lonely. On the other hand, if the facility is too close you may struggle to give your loved one the space and independence they truly desire. Striking the right balance between proximity and distance is therefore a critical consideration when choosing an RCFE. You’ll also want to ensure that the RCFE is located close enough to medical facilities, shopping centers, and anything else your loved one may need.
