Did you know that, as we age, common arthritic conditions are likely to worsen, making everyday activities, such as playing the piano, knitting, holding playing cards, and opening envelopes and packages just about impossible? Growing old can be a completely sobering experience, and making sure our loved ones are as comfortable and healthy as possible during their last years is critical. Choosing the best senior living accommodations is a great place to start. What do you need to know about finding and living in a senior home?

Prioritize Amenities

One of the best ways to choose a nursing or senior living center is to start with, and prioritize, amenities. Although decisions to move into senior housing or a senior home are often inspired by unexpected events, knowing what is and is not required to keep loved ones happy is the most important step. For example, a Senior Living News and Trends study reveals that the majority of respondents (39.79%) rank the opportunity to bring and care for pets as their top concern.

Seniors and families should also ask about availability of healthcare on-site, transportation, visiting hours, staff, prepared meals, recreational activities, exercise classes and routines, spiritual services, and more.

Consider Independent Living for Seniors

Moreover, families should consider how much assistance and hands-on care elderly loved ones need. Independent senior living affords loved ones a lot more freedoms, and can sometimes even improve outlooks and prolong lives. According to non-profit organization Seniors for Living, independent housing can be a viable and beneficial alternative to living in a senior home. Independent living or senior housing often entails some assistance, such as laundry, housekeeping, groundskeeping, and transportation services. Most offer on-site medical care, prepared meals, and community and/or recreational activities. Independent living homes are also likely to include senior-friendly fixtures and appliances, such as accessible, walk-in bathtubs.

Decisions about senior living and elderly care should not be taken lightly. Choose the best accommodations for loved ones by carefully weighing the importance of amenities and the benefits of independent senior housing. Find out more at this site.