Over the past several years my wife has managed her elderly parents’ care in an assisted living facility. Sadly, Geeta Anand’s New York Times article, How Not to Grow Old in America, is an accurate reflection of our experience of the care promised versus the care delivered, especially in the memory care unit. Paying for a full-time outside aide was the only way her folks got the help they needed. The take-aways from this article and our experience are:
Do your research before the need arrives. The cost of assisted living can be more (maybe substantially more) than expected.
Consider a wide range of options including moving to a different area, but still close to family. Assisted and retirement living facility costs vary widely around the country.
Involve adult children if possible. This can be challenging but, in our experience, it can be critical for ensuring parents receive the care they need. Calling isn’t enough. They need to visit and have an open line of communication.