What attributes to look for in elder care

Senior living centers and caregivers are an incredible resource for most families. A well-run elder care facility can allow families to customize the living experience to what works best for them or their loved ones. However, it takes time to find the right place for an elderly loved one.

Luckily, there are things that you can observe during a visit or during the research process to know if you are picking the right option for you or your parents.

Seven aspects to consider in a senior living center

Before you finalize your decision, take time to consider the various attributes of the center to evaluate whether it provides high-quality care. For example, consider these factors:

• The interactions between staff and residents
• The demeanor of the employees
• The hygiene of the patients
• The condition of the rooms
• The food the cafeteria serves
• The rules regarding visitation
• An activity calendar available for residents and their families

Taking time to think about these little details will help ensure that you are choosing the right place for your loved one. It is also important to research information such as health department ratings, staffing ratios, licensing inspections and any official complaints or reviews.

When it’s time for change

There’s a possibility that your research and observation may not reveal all the problems behind the scenes. For example, many seniors in New Mexico suffer abuse or neglect in their assisted living or by personal caregivers.

However, you have the right to remove your loved one from a toxic situation. You can also seek legal representation to help you protect your loved one and put a stop to the wrongdoing so that no one else falls victim to an abusive center or caregiver. In those cases, it’s important to find the right legal advocate for your family.