Choosing Assisted Living

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Searching for assisted living or a nursing home in the Kansas City area? Seniors and their families have several options depending on their personal healthcare needs and lifestyle. Sometimes “nursing home” is used as an umbrella term for all types of residential care communities for seniors, from assisted living to long term skilled nursing.


You will typically hear about 3 types of senior living communities- Independent Living,  Assisted Living, and Skilled Nursing. So which is best for you or your loved one? Let’s break down the differences.

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Understanding Different Senior Living Options

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Independent living communities cater to active seniors seeking a maintenance-free lifestyle, providing amenities such as fitness centers and transportation services while allowing residents to maintain their independence in private apartments or houses.

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Assisted living facilities offer a supportive environment for seniors who require assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs), such as bathing, dressing, and medication management. Residents live in private or semi-private apartments within a community setting, enjoying amenities like communal dining areas and social activities while receiving personalized care services.

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Memory care or skilled nursing facilities, on the other hand, provide more around-the-clock nursing care and medical supervision for seniors with complex medical needs, dementia, and those undergoing rehabilitation. These facilities offer assistance with ADLs, medication management, and therapeutic activities, often with specialized units for short-term rehabilitation or long-term care.

Determining Which Type of Facility Is Right for Your Loved One

Determining the right senior living option for your loved one begins with assessing their needs, preferences, and lifestyle. Consult healthcare professionals, tour different communities, and consider your financial bandwidth to make an informed decision. Plan for the future and trust your instincts to choose the option that best promotes your loved one's comfort, safety, and overall well-being.


For more information and resources on assisted living in the greater Kansas City area, contact Family Shepherd. We would be happy to help guide you as well as connect you with a Placement Agent or Senior Care Advisor that we like and trust.

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What to Look for in a Quality Assisted Living Facility?

There are a lot of fancy looking senior living communities. How can you tell which ones are actually high quality care communities and which ones just have nice chandeliers? Pay attention to the staff when you are touring these communities. Ask questions about how long staff members have been at the community. Communities with lots of turnover in the care staff are generally the kinds of places you want to avoid.


Three key questions to ask:


  • “How are care plans developed and updated for each resident, and how often are they reassessed?”
  • “What qualifications, training, and certifications do your staff members possess?”
  • “How do you monitor and assess the quality of care and services provided to residents, and what steps are taken to address any areas for improvement?”
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FAQs

Have a question? We’re here to help.

  • What are the typical costs associated with assisted living facilities in Kansas City?

    On average, assisted living in Kansas City can range from $3,000 to $6,000 per month. This monthly fee typically covers rent for a private or semi-private apartment, meals, housekeeping, transportation, and access to amenities and activities. 


    Additional costs may apply for specialized care services, medication management, and personal care assistance. Financial assistance likes long-term care insurance, veterans benefits, and Medicaid waivers may help offset some of the costs for eligible individuals.

  • How to plan financially for long-term care?

    To plan financially for long-term care, start by assessing your current financial situation, including income, savings, investments, and insurance coverage. Consider purchasing long-term care insurance to help cover future care expenses and protect your assets. 


    Explore other options such as health savings accounts (HSAs), annuities, and life insurance policies with long-term care benefits. You can work with a financial advisor to create a comprehensive financial plan that includes budgeting for potential long-term care costs and establishing a strategy for asset protection and estate planning. 

  • What factors should influence your decision in choosing a nursing home or assisted living?

    One of the biggest factors in whether or not you will get the best care is the staff and the reputation. Ask about the typical staff-to-resident ratio. The minimum required by law is 1:40 (1 caregiver for every 40, but a ratio closer to 1:8 or 1:4 is much more desirable.

  • What are common concerns or red flags to be aware of?

    It's crucial to pay attention to the overall cleanliness and maintenance of the facility to know that it meets your standards for hygiene and safety. Watch the interactions between staff and residents to gauge the level of attentiveness and compassion provided.

  • How to prepare for the transition to an assisted living facility?

    To prepare for the transition to senior living, begin downsizing and organizing belongings to prepare for a smaller living space, and consider seeking professional downsizing assistance if needed. 


    Both the senior and their family should be sure to take care of their emotional well-being by seeking support from other friends and family as well as taking advantage of any community resources or counseling services if necessary.

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