According to Aging.com, there are approximately 30,000 assisted living facilities in the United States to choose from. That’s a lot of options for families looking for care for their loved ones. And if you’re searching in Los Angeles specifically, the options are still tremendous.
The good news is that finding an assisted living facility in Los Angeles that you and your loved one enjoy isn’t too hard. Yes, there are a lot of choices, but that makes it easier to pinpoint exactly what you’re looking for and ensure all of your needs are met.
Choosing the right senior assisted living facility requires many considerations. This guide can help:
1. Understand the Cost
Compared to other states, Los Angeles tends to have a higher price tag. This is due to many factors, from the premier location (proximity to world-class hospitals, beautiful weather year-round, and picturesque beaches and palm trees) to the higher cost of real estate, staffing, and amenities. Los Angeles facilities are also in higher demand, driving up the price tag.
2. Know the Neighborhoods
Los Angeles is a large city that spans around 469 square miles. Within these borders lie about 132 assisted living facilities, from gorgeous Santa Monica to more inner-city West Covina. When choosing an assisted living facility for yourself or a loved one, it’s important to know the area and community. Check for traffic (many locations have high commute times due to traffic), safety, walkability, and proximity to must-haves, including everything from church to grocery stores, hospitals to extracurricular activities. More importantly, ensure the facility is close enough for regular visitations.
3. Research the Facilities
Cost and location are two important factors when it comes to moving to assisted living in Los Angeles, but it’s not the only thing to concern yourself with – there’s also the facility itself.
It’s essential to find an assisted living facility that fits the needs and desires of your loved one. For example, some may want to live in a senior living facility that emphasizes being active with plenty of exercise classes on-site and regular outings. Others may need to focus more on medical needs, such as extensive memory care and help with day-to-day activities, such as bathing and eating.
Don’t look solely at the surface level, though. Any assisted living facility can wrap its establishment in a pretty bow. Dig deeper – look at reviews online from actual residents and their families, look up the facility’s license and history, and visit the place in person. Ask questions, such as what the staff turnover rate is and how families can remain an integral part of the residents’ lives.
4. Plan for the Transition
Moving from a home (or similar dwelling) to a senior living facility is a big step, and some future residents may feel quite emotional about the transition. Families should expect an adjustment period anywhere from weeks to months after moving.
There are many ways to make the transition easier, though:
- Tour the facility multiple times so your loved one can be familiar with the space and staff
- Personalize the space with pictures of loved ones, favorite pieces of artwork, and any other must-haves
- Don’t rush the process – let it happen gradually over time
- Encourage participation in on-site activities, whether it’s a club, class, or meal
- Listen to their feelings, validate them, and show empathy
- Visit frequently and call regularly
- If applicable, take your loved one on outings to their favorite places, such as a restaurant or community center
Moving to Assisted Living in Los Angeles with Confidence at Commonwealth Royale Senior Living
We understand that choosing the right senior living facility for your loved one can be a challenge, especially in the grand landscape of Los Angeles. Commonwealth Royale Senior Living is here to make the choice easier. From our top-notch care and facilities to tremendous programs and activities, we make our residents feel at home and give families the confidence that they’re making the right decision.
Ready to see if Commonwealth Royale Senior Living is right for you and your family member? Email zara@comroyale.com or call us at (213) 382-6381 to learn more and schedule a tour. You can also stop by at 150 S Commonwealth Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90004 anytime. We look forward to seeing you!
To learn more about us, please visit www.ComRoy.com.
