How to Find the Best Retirement Communities Near You?

Retirement community is an umbrella term for all senior care facilities including assisted living, congregate housing, senior co-housing, and mobile or subsidized homes. All forms of retirement communities provide accommodations, meals, and basic healthcare services to it's residents.
These facilities are best for elders that are unable to care for themselves or seniors who are looking for more maintenance free living.

Here are some things you should keep in mind while looking for a senior living facility in St Louis, MO.
find the best assisted living
Elders Discussing Senior Living Facilities

Things to Keep in Mind While Looking for a Senior Living Facility


Visit the Community 

Visit the assisted living communities near you. It will give you an idea about what is generally offered in your area and make it easier to find a good fit.
If you are looking for a loved one, you can bring them along too so that they can be part of the decision-making process.

Meet the Staff and Residents

While touring the community, meet some of the staff as well as the seniors living there. Try to see how the staff cares for the residents and if they are happy with their jobs. Ask about staff-to-resident ratio and if staff members are available around the clock.

Talk to the residents to see how they feel about the facility. Are they enjoying their time there? Is the staff supportive and caring? Do they enjoy the services that are provided?

Check Out The Environment

Does the senior care facility offer a home-like environment to its residents? Check out the types of suites available there. Each community provides various options; some have individual apartments with a kitchen and bathrooms, while others provide shared rooms. Also look into the storage spaces available in their rooms. Make sure the rooms are well ventilated and let in natural light. The rooms should not look gloomy. A pleasant room with basic amenities will let your elder feel more comfortable.

Take a Note of Safety Features

Besides amenities and services, make sure the facility follows security codes. Look for the things like fire extinguishers, smoke detectors, sprinklers, emergency escapes and call systems. Check if the grounds are well lit and maintained. The hallways should be wide enough for easy passing for walkers and wheelchairs and the bathrooms should have grab bars.

What Does Their Services Include

Do they provide just three meals a day or are there additional meals? Is there a washer and dryer in the unit? Do they provide medical assistance? Do they provide cable TV and Internet service? Do they provide personal care for your daily needs?

Know About the Prices

The cost of senior living in St. Louis varies based on the services and the level of care. Know about the charges for the specific services. Many US states allow their citizens to use Medicaid to pay for assisted living. If your elder’s income is below $12,000 a year, he or she can qualify for the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development 202 and Section 8 senior housing to get subsidies on the rent for assisted living.

Hopefully these tips will help you find the best retirement community in St. Louis.

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