Top 10 Things to Look for in a Senior Living Facility

Did you know that there are about 28,900 assisted living communities in the U.S? That equates to almost one million licensed beds. Twenty-eight percent of these communities are in the South.

That means you have a lot of choices when it comes to choosing a senior living facility.

But what should you look for? Even the task of getting started may seem overwhelming.

That’s why we’ll take a look at the aspects you should evaluate when searching for assisted living or a senior living home, whether you’re researching for yourself or someone else.

The Top 10 Things to Look for in Senior Living Homes

1. The Staff

These are the ones you or your loved one will depend upon day after day. Of course, you want them to be good at their jobs and have the specialized training needed.

But there should be something more.

The staff should genuinely love what they do. This is reflected in their friendliness and responsiveness to residents’ needs.

At Cedar Cove, we believe our nursing and support staff are stellar examples of exemplary employees. When hiring, we look at more than credentials; we want someone who is willing to invest in the well-being and happiness of our residents.

2. The Residents

Are they happy?

This seems like a simple question, but there are many facets to it: Do the residents feel like they are at home? Do they feel safe? Do they have a good rapport with those they see every day?
Just take a look at what one visitor said about Cedar Cove:

“All residents seem happy and engaged, and caregivers are actively involved with the residents.”

We think just one visit at Cedar Cove and you’ll concur. See why our residents love living here. We’re scheduling virtual tours, so just contact us for the next available slot.

3. Activities

You or your loved one is making a big change. After all, this will be your new home, filled with the opportunity to meet new neighbors and the need to adjust to the new surroundings.

It’s important that the senior living community you select has a wide variety of activities. This gives you the chance to not only engage in a favorite past time but to discover new ones.

At Cedar Cove, our slate of activities includes:

  • Bingo
  • Exercise
  • Card games
  • Bible studies
  • Craft time

And much more!

We also have resident council meetings where we listen and address any concerns.

4. The Food

When residents are receiving three meals a day, seven days a week, 52 weeks a year, it’s important that the food is both nutritious and delicious.

We take pride in the fact that our home-cooked meals get rave reviews. Our staff dietician ensures residents are receiving healthy food and that special accommodations are made for those on specific diets.

5. Level of Independence

Assisted living gives you the independence you crave while sparing you from the headaches of home maintenance, chores and cooking. You should always check to see how the senior living facility honors this sacred trust.

After all, you’re there because you’re still active but might need a helping hand now and then.

We know and respect our residents’ independence. We give them the freedom to live their own lives as independently as safely possible.

6. Memory Care

Caring for a family member with Alzheimer’s or another type of dementia can be emotionally draining. It robs you from your role as son, daughter or spouse, consuming your time with helping them.

You should check to see if the senior living home has beds dedicated to memory care, where those with dementia are carefully monitored while also being offered stimulating, and safe activities.

We’re proud of our Memory Care Center at Cedar Cove; our staff has received extensive professional training specifically focused on helping those with Alzheimer’s or dementia.

7. Location

You’ll be spending a lot of time at this senior living community, whether it’s your new home or you’re visiting someone.

Shouldn’t you make the most of it?

When selecting a location, ask yourself:

  • Is it near shopping, dining, or other events?
  • Are there lots of leisure activities nearby?
  • Is it a beautiful and vibrant community?

We’re thrilled to say that Cedar Cove is located in the gorgeous coastal North Carolina city of Wilmington, which features some of the most beautiful beaches in the South.

There are dozens of things to do in Wilmington, whether sampling the local seafood or visiting the Battleship North Carolina.

8. Family Owned or Large Corporation?

Is the community owned by a large, faceless corporation or is it owned by a family? At Cedar Cove, we’re proud to be family owned and operated.

This helps ensure that you always get the personalized touch that results from our senior living facility going the extra mile.

9. Transportation

We have a staff member who is dedicated to providing transportation to help you go to and from doctor appointments.

10. Works With Doctors

If you have a chronic health condition, you want to be sure that the staff works seamlessly with your regular physician to ensure you have the highest level of care.

Cedar Cove Excels in Each Top 10 Item

Of course, we realize it’s easy to say these things, but it’s entirely another to experience them.

That’s why we truly feel that the best way to experience Cedar Cove is by contacting us for a virtual tour where you can ask questions and learn all about what Cedar Cove has to offer.

But hurry! Schedule your tour today because our spaces fill quickly.