Red Bluff Daily News Special Publications
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What to Look for in an Assisted Living Center RCFE # 525002546 Our goal at Brookdale Assisted Living & Memory Care Community is to meet each resident's individual needs while maintaining the highest level of choice, dignity, privacy, and respect - all in a homelike atmosphere. Assisted Living Assisted living at Brookdale Red Bluff is designed for senior adults who wish to maintain their independent lifestyle but may need some additional assistance to do so. Basic Services include: • 3 delicious meals served daily • 24-hour specially-trained on-site staff • Engaging activities • Apartment maintenance • Weekly housekeeping and linen service • Scheduled transportation • All utilities paid • Emergency call systems in each apartment In addition to the Basic Services we provide each of our residents, Brookdale Red Bluff also offers Personalized Assistance Plans 705 Luther Road • Red Bluff • (530) 529-2900 www.brookdale.com E Q U A L H O U S I N G OPPORTUNITY Brookdale Red Bluff Formerly Emeritus ® at Lassen House Assisted Living | Alzheimer's & Dementia Care If you are searching for an assisted liv- ing center for yourself or a loved one, your first task should be researching your local care centers. All assisted care centers are not the same. Assisted living centers help patients continue to live an active lifestyle. They can live in comfortable, cost-ef- fective setting that has many con- veniences. However, assisted care centers are also a full-time medical facility. As people age, they often need extra care. Others may be facing a debili- tating illness. The care required can be far more than friends or family can give. Assisted living centers are popular options for people who need medical attention. In the past, long-term care could only be handled by a nursing home. Living in a hospital setting for an extended time was not a pleasant environment. When looking for an assisted care center, consider some of these fac- tors. GARDEN AND LANDSCAPING It's a little known fact that the land- scaping of an assisted living center will give you a good indication about the quality of the facility. Proper main- tenance of the lawn and gardens is a good sign. If the prospective resident enjoys spending time in nature, look for a facility that has park-like areas. Some centers have community-style gar- dens and walkways for residents. Just being able to see nature as it grows and changes with the seasons can be uplifting and soothing. An assisted living center with manicured lawn and garden can make a huge difference in the quality of life for a loved one. HOME AMENITIES Accommodations at these centers can range from luxurious, detached cottages to cozy condominiums. It all depends on what you are looking for, what you can afford, and what is available. As you visit the facilities, try to per- sonalize each space. Imagine how your loved one's belongings might fit into the area and where decorations will be placed. Does the atmosphere bring about a feeling of peace and tranquility? How are the rooms deco- rated? Are they tasteful and soothing, or do they remind you of a hospital setting? Look at the home amenities and con- sider how you would feel living there, or your loved one living there, and how they meet your budget. RECREATION FACILITIES Game and meeting areas can help the resident make new friends and keep them from feeling alone and lonely. Leaving the confines of their units is an important part of recovery. Make sure the center offers activities and space to occupy your loved one's time. Quality facilities will have activities that match his or her hobbies. If your family member enjoys crafts, then look for a center with a designated craft area or classes for your loved one to enjoy. PERSONAL CARE Ask your loved one's personal phy- sician how much care is required to function safely. The doctor may even be able to guide you toward an appropriate facility. Be sure to seek advice on what qualifications and certifications you need to look for in the center's staff. The center's employ- ees should be well-qualified to handle medical needs. If you monitor the medical care, you can avoid paying for extensive ser- vices that your loved one may not need. Understanding the care the person requires will help you find a center that is a good fit. Choosing an assisted living facility is about finding the right combination of medical services and amenities. With research and thought, you will find the perfect place to bring comfort and care to your loved one.