Memory Care

How To Make A Move To Assisted Living In Kansas City Like A Move To A New Home

September 10, 2020 by The Piper

Home is one of the most essential parts of our lives. Home is where you feel safe and where you are loved and understood. Even for those that have not had a particularly happy home-life yearn for it as we all do.

A home isn’t just bricks and mortar; it is comfort, care, support, and security.

Home is where you find all of your familiar possessions. If all your belongings were recovered from a hurricane and put into a warehouse with hundreds of others, you would probably identify them instantly. Your family pictures, your family heirlooms, and your collectibles are home to you.

How Many Homes Have You Lived In?

The average American will move 11.4 times in their life. Today that number is rising because we are a very mobile culture.

It is an interesting exercise to think back over your life and count the number of homes you’ve had or places you’ve lived.

The average person may move out of their parent’s home into an apartment or smaller domicile. Then as life transitions take place, moves are made to fit the situation.

A young, married couple may decide to buy a larger home in anticipation of a growing family.

If a couple is fortunate to grow financially, they may decide on a bigger home with more amenities. Homes seem to be a reflection of the lifestyle and financial situation.

A career change may cause a relocation and the need for a new residence in a new community.

There is a myriad of reasons people move, and most often, those are exciting adventures. To move to a house with a larger kitchen, more bedrooms, bigger yard, or garage can be a very happy and exciting time.

Moving Is A Healthy And Normal Activity, Although It Takes A Lot Of Work.

When Seniors take a hard look at their living situation, it may become necessary and wise to begin to downsize.

Leaving the family home is a difficult decision, but it also is a natural sequence in the journey of life. Suddenly it feels as though leaving the last residence is a dead end, but that is not necessarily true.

In order to prepare for a more carefree life without the worry of home upkeep, yard work, taxes, and insurance, moving to a maintenance provided community is a great option.

Seniors Want To Live Independently As Long As Possible.

Finding the right-sized home is a key to staying active. It may be possible to find the right neighborhood that offers neighbors of similar age and interests. Some of these neighborhoods have community centers and athletic courts.

With less time spent on maintaining a home, there is more time to pursue interests, hobbies, and exercise that have been ignored in the past.

This move can lighten the load and burden of too much stuff. It is also an opportunity to give treasured items to children and grandkids while you are able to see their excitement.

Each Time A Move Is Made, More Items Can Be Left Behind Or Given To Family Members.

But home is always home. Selections are made to take the treasures and comfort pieces to make the new house a home. Bricks and mortar are transformed into a comfortable home.

People love to be surrounded by photographs of family and artwork that speaks to them. Precious books may represent personal growth and lifelong learning. Music can be portable and made available in the new home.

What Happens When An Elder Is In Need Of Medical Support And Can No Longer Live Independently?

If the time comes for Assisted Living or Memory Care, another move is on the horizon. Again, it is a change of address, but the same principles of dozens of moves can be repeated now.

The Piper Assisted Living and Memory Support creators designed the whole community around home. It is more than architecture; it is a philosophy that embraces the concept of home.

From the beginning, it was envisioned and designed to be home, not an institution. Each resident has an apartment that will hold the treasures, the books, the music, and all the things that have made a home for years. They will enjoy their own living room, kitchenette, bedroom, and private bath.

Each small intimate household of 20 residents has a comfortable living room, dining room, den, family-style kitchen, and sunroom. There are areas for card games, TV watching, reading, visiting, and relaxing. And of course, the private apartment is the quiet getaway.

There are areas for family members to spend time visiting and a spacious formal dining room where a family could have a private get together.

It is the perfect home!

This move can be as appropriate and exciting as any of the other moves. It is the time of life when smaller is better, much like you very first venture out to live on your own. It is as if our domiciles take full-circle and return to a small, cozy, safe, and secure place to live and thrive.

From Small To Big, Then Small Again!

It is a life transition that can bring years of happiness. Elders can live successfully when they are ‘at home’ with support and caring individuals who appreciate them. Just like all your life, home is where you feel safe and where you are loved and understood. It is more than downsizing; it is right-sizing for this chapter of life.

If you are interested in The Piper for your loved one, please contact us with any questions.

New Options In Senior Living In Kansas City

July 9, 2020 by The Piper

The Piper Assisted Living And Memory Support In Kansas City Has Added Memory Care Lite As An Option For Dementia Care.

A community in Kansas City has created a new level of care, called Memory Care Lite, to provide the optimum environment and support so residents with early stages of dementia can live their most productive and fulfilling lives.

The unique Household design at the Piper creates the perfect opportunity to add another option. With only 20 people living in a household, there is the opportunity to keep those with the earliest diagnosis and the highest function together.

A Little Background…

Many Senior healthcare professionals know that the proper level of care for an individual should be based on each of their unique needs and strengths.

Historically, there was little difference in what types of care were available. Not that long ago, if an elder needed care of any sort, the only choice was a nursing home. You would find very frail elders sharing space with seniors who were still relatively healthy, but could not live alone because of declining memory.

Before Memory Support was a concept of care, healthy residents who had memory deficit were cared for in the same facility as those who were frail but were completely cognizant. The memory care residents needed more activity and stimulation for their quality of life, while the truly fragile residents needed assistance with hygiene, eating, and various nursing needs.

In those early days, there was no specialized training for caring for those with Alzheimer’s or other types of dementia. It did not create a healthy, supportive environment for either type of resident because their needs were so different.

The early efforts to care for patients with severe brain failure was heavy sedation and restraints. New solutions were desperately needed.

Memory Care Began In Earnest In The Early 1980s.

Stanford Health Center for Memory Disorders says, “Research in the last 30 years has led to a greatly improved understanding of what dementia is, who gets it, and how it develops and affects the brain. This work is beginning to pay

off with better diagnostic techniques, improved treatments, and even potential ways of preventing these diseases.

The old hospital model was replaced with Memory Care facilities that were designed to look and feel more home-like.

Staff received specialized training in dementia that was essential for best care practices. With a group of seniors who have dementia, activities could be created to keep them active and engaged. In turn, certain behaviors improved, and residents were happier.

Obviously, those needs can change as the disease progresses. There are many residents with an early dementia diagnosis who are high functioning except for their disorientation and tendency to wander. They can be a danger to themselves when trying to do everyday activities such as preparing food, taking medications, etc. It may become impossible for them to live alone or for a spouse to provide a safe environment 24/7.

In later stages of the disease process, Alzheimer’s and dementia residents may need a great deal of nursing care support. They can become physically impaired, along with their diminished mental capabilities. This can lead to a very high level of care.

The New Piper Household Concept Is Memory Care Lite.

Alzheimer’s and dementia progress in different stages, at different rates. Oftentimes, the only options are Assisted Living or Memory Care. Now, for seniors who fall somewhere in between, there’s an alternative.   Memory Care Lite is an option for seniors who need more cognitive support and security than Assisted Living, but their dementia hasn’t progressed to the level of standard Memory Care. Seniors can safely maintain some independence, receive more care and be in the company of others in similar life stages.

With just 20 apartments in the Memory Care Lite Household, residents will find neighbors to connect with and participate in conversations, activities, and stimulating pursuits. This setting could possibly help slow down the progression of the disease by having other high functioning residents with whom to engage.

This model allows caregivers to be creative in customizing the highest level of stimulation and more advanced activities that may not be appropriate for those with advanced dementia.

For questions about Memory Care Lite, contact The Piper today.

What Is The Difference Between Memory Care And Assisted Living In Kansas City?

December 31, 2019 by The Piper

As kids start to realize that their family member is beginning to show signs of memory loss and may be in need of assisted living or memory care, the immediate question becomes, “How long can my mom/dad stay in their home alone?”

What begins as innocuous short-term memory loss and repetitious questions may quickly progress to dangerous situations like wandering outside in freezing weather conditions and medication mistakes that have deadly consequences.

So often those with dementia have strong and healthy bodies, but their minds are failing them. This creates unique problems because these individuals seem able to take care of themselves as they always have. Elders that have physical limitations but are completely cognitive realize their need for assistance, while those with dementia are oftentimes more resistant to care.

Assisted Living is designed to support those individuals with physical limitations, but whose cognition is relatively good.
Memory Care is designed to support those individuals who may or may not have physical limitations but do have compromised memory function which endangers their life.

Why Memory Care In Kansas City?

Not all senior retirement communities in Kansas City have a specific area for Elders with Dementia or Alzheimers. This type of care takes a secure area to protect against wandering and staff that is trained to work with these special residents.

The Piper has two households of 20 residents each, that are specifically designed for memory Support.

Apartments are studio style so that there are fewer walls and barriers to physically navigate. Since spacial orientation is a challenge, all areas of the apartment, including the bathroom, are visible for the center of the room.

Memory Support Staff Members Are Trained To Communicate And Support Residents With Compassion And Respect.

Communication is more than just talking and listening – it’s also about sending and receiving messages through attitude, tone of voice, facial expressions and body language.

Staff is continually learning new ways to communicate as the disease progresses. In the smaller setting at The Piper, residents see the same staff every day which provides familiarity and recognition.

Providing The Proper Amount Of Stimulation To Encourage Memory Function Is Balanced With Creating A Calm And Relaxing Environment For Those That Are Easily Irritated.

Activities like painting, singing, and storytelling allow residents to use ingrained skills and abilities that remain intact.

Delicious and healthy meals are prepared and served family-style to create an atmosphere of safety and security. Queuing for meals is also provided to make sure that everyone has nutritious lifestyle habits.

Why Would My Loved One Need Memory Care?

Families sometimes struggle with the decision to move their family member to Memory Care as opposed to regular Assisted Living. It may be a denial that there is a serious issue or a lack of understanding about what Memory Care is.

A wife of one of a resident said after her long struggle to decide to move her husband, “I had not realized that when he was at home I was always trying to help fit him into our past “normal life” and once he moved to The Piper Memory Support in Kansas City I suddenly realized that he now could fit into his own world and the struggle was over for both of us.” Her visits became relaxed and enjoyable without expectations for either of them.

Wandering is a serious issue for those with Dementia, especially if the individuals still drive. Daily we see Silver Alerts that describe someone with Dementia who is lost away from home. Nothing is more frightening.

Why Is The Term “Locked Facility” Used?

Because of the wandering issue, it is import that residents live in a safe and secure space while at the same time not feeling like a prison. The Piper has two secured households and the word ‘locked’ is not used by staff.

A doorbell at the front allows families and guests to visit easily and respect the safety concerns of each household.

A beautiful fenced outdoor space creates a feeling of freedom and allows for additional exercise.

The Decision To Determine Between Regular Assisted Living Or Memory Support Will Be Made By Family And Staff Together.

When there is a question or confusion about what type of care is needed, an assessment can answer the question.

An appointed is set up with the director of nursing to visit with the potential new resident with family present. A variety of mini-mental tests can be given and with a conversation with all involved, a decision can be made if it is time for Memory Care.

These assessments are not intimidating and can be very casual in nature to ensure the best responses from the new resident and help educate the family.

It is important that each individual has a specific care plan that fits their needs. The goal is to provide support while encouraging as much independence as possible.

If the symptoms of Dementia or Alzheimers are minimal, a move to regular Assisted Living may be the best decision for the time being, but keeping the prospect of Memory Support for a later date.

The important thing is to allow and encourage all residents to live the best life possible.

All residents deserve respect and dignity no matter their situation.

If you would like to speak to someone about the decision for your loved one to move into Assisted Living or Memory Care, contact The Piper today.

Reasons to Consider The Move Into Assisted Living In Kansas City Now

December 17, 2019 by The Piper

The excuse “after the holidays” is used so often as a reason for delaying a decision or action, but here are some thoughts about making a move to Assisted Living or Memory Care before the rush of the holiday season.

Winter weather brings many more complexities for Seniors living at home. Icy sidewalks mean more opportunities for falls. Shoveling snow can be a very dangerous activity. Coming down with the flu or pneumonia without someone at home to provide care. Making a move to Assisted Living before winter weather threatens is one way to get ahead of those obvious perils.
For some Elders the holiday season can become a serious time of depression and loneliness. While the whole world seems to be focused on ‘being merry’ those that are homebound may suffer even more. At The Piper there are daily activities to enjoy and celebrate the season.
Families are extremely busy during this season, so the added pressures of being a caregiver can be overwhelming. Rather than neglecting any one of the pressures, it may be time to make a change. The overwhelming relief of not being responsible on a daily basis can bring extra pleasure for everyone.
When Seniors move into The Piper Assisted Living their families can enjoy coming to visit without worrying about home maintenance, medical support or providing transportation to and from appointments.

So why put off the inevitable move to Assisted Living or Memory Support when the time comes near. Enjoy these coming holidays, even more, knowing your loved one is in a safe, secure and happy place. Schedule a tour at The Piper now!

What’s The Difference Between An Investment Retirement Community And A Monthly Rental Community?

November 7, 2019 by The Piper

There are a variety of Assisted Living and Memory Care housing options available to Seniors in the Kansas City area.

There are differences in the monthly charges and how additional fees are managed. Two of these stand out as the most common types.

The first is a community where residents invest a large fee upfront that secures certain commitments on the part of the community.

The second type is a simple month to month rental program.

There are advantages and disadvantages to both.

Different situations will fit different people, so it is good to have a general understanding. In addition it is critical to fully understand what type of financial plan each community has before moving or making a commitment.

The Most Simple And Straight Forward Type Is The Monthly Rental Community.

A monthly rental community is the most popular option in the United States and is usually the least expensive of the two models.

These communities require residents to sign a lease and pay some type of security deposit or community fee. This community fee may or may not be refundable. Typical fees might be between $1000 and $5000.

It is also a standard expectation that rental fees may increase annually as do most market-rate apartments.

The Real Advantage Of Rental Property Is That There Is No Long Term Commitment To Stay In A Community If The Resident Or Family Become Dissatisfied.

Although it is always the goal of the resident and family to stay in one location there are times when this becomes impossible. Perhaps a move is made to be closer to family members. With this type of rental, there is usually just a 30-day notice to cancel the lease.

One additional benefit is if a resident is applying for any kind of a Veteran’s benefit, it may be important that they do not have a large investment fee committed to a community that is considered an asset.

What Do Rental Communities Provide In The Way Of Services?

Again, each community may differ and it is important to ask questions and investigate each separately.

Typically a rental property may have Independent Living, Assisted Living, Memory Care, and Long Term Care or a combination of all four. If services are not provided it may be necessary to move.

There is no specific contractual agreement that the resident has to stay.

Again, there is more flexibility to find the level of care in the best environment if it is a simple rental.

Just as the investment properties, rentals include amenities such as meals, housekeeping, medication management, bathing, transportation, activities, and much more.

A Continuing Care Retirement Community or CCRC may charge a hefty up-front entrance fee as well as an ongoing monthly charge.

These communities will normally have all levels of care available, although a few do not have Memory Care. A common upfront investment might be $200,000 to $300,000.

This fee will automatically disqualify many seniors, but there are commitments that come with this fee that may seem attractive.

In most states, CCRC’s are strictly regulated by the Office of Insurance Regulation.

Unlike some other senior living options, there are both financial and medical criteria that seniors must meet to qualify for move-in. This is because once a senior is accepted in a community they are contractually obligated to care for them no matter how their medical condition or financial situation changes.

There are many variables that may exist community to community.

How much of the fee is refundable, if any, at death?
What is done with the investment money and does the CCRC have liquid assets?
What are the additional monthly maintenance fees and will they increase over time?
Is there any equity built up from the original fee?
Who is in charge of remodeling the apartment after a certain time period?
If care level increases will monthly fees increase?

Choosing A Senior Housing Community In Kansas City

There are many pros and cons to both options, therefore, it is important to carefully assess a senior’s medical and financial situation before deciding.

The CCRC investment commitment allows for less flexibility but perhaps additional longterm security.

A monthly rental community will allow the greatest flexibility especially for a person that is unsure about their decision to move out of their home.

When possible it is desirable to talk with a trusted advisor about a move. At The Piper it is our goal to always have very candid conversations about the needs of the Elder and their financial situation. An accurate fit is the best fit!

Which Is Best, Large Or Small Assisted Living And Memory Care Communities In Kansas City?

October 31, 2019 by The Piper

Different Needs May Require Different Physical Layouts In Community Living.

I recently had a conversation with an 87-year-old gentleman, we’ll call Joe, who needs to move out of his life long home.

This fellow described himself as single, very active and generally in good health. He takes care of himself, including bathing, medication management, and food preparation.

On the other hand, his family feels he may be having some memory issues that need to be addressed soon.

So What Is The Best Living Situation For Him?

Joe has had a very successful career in business and has enjoyed an active social life.

His desire is to continue living an active life without the burdens and responsibilities of homeownership.

As I asked him more questions about his plans and wishes for the future, it became apparent that he is ready for a very active and diverse community.

A large and multifaceted facility may be best for now. He enjoys tennis, swimming, and various physical activities, and some communities offer these amenities.

There Is A Caveat.

Since he may be developing some memory issues it is necessary to think of the future in any chosen community.

If that facility is a full continuum of care, meaning they have every level of care a person might need, then the ability to stay could be made available. That is an extremely important question to pursue with any community.

There are retirement communities in Kansas City that say they are a full continuum of care, but they lack a memory support unit.

Predicting the future is difficult at best, so being advised of all situations is important.

If Every Level Of Care Is Available What Does The Physical Environment Look Like?

In one phase of lifestyle a large active community may be a good fit, but at the same time when care levels increase it may be preferable to be in a smaller more manageable and homelike environment.

Assisted Living and Memory Care units in Kansas City are better designed as smaller communities.

At a time in life when healthcare support is necessary, being in a large community with long hotel-like hallways, dining rooms that resemble large restaurants and medical care that feels institutional may actually be detrimental.

This is a time in life when the feeling of home is most important. Space that is manageable, secure and homey is very important for Elders in need of care. The size and configuration of the community is an important consideration.

The Issue Of Memory Care Is Particularly Important.

Memory care is best provided in a small, intimate setting where the same caregivers are present every day. Large spaces can be threatening and add confusion and insecurity to the individual with Dementia or Alzheimer’s.

Suddenly the large active community is not the right setting for advanced care.

Anticipating This Need Is Important And Future Planning Needs To Be Considered.

As I told Joe, there are times when a large multifaceted community can be a wonderful environment for an independent person.

In addition, it is important to think of the environment for more advanced care. The physical plant and the philosophy of care must be carefully considered.

At The Piper we provide the unique household model for Assisted Living and Memory Support because we believe that the best possible future for our Elders is provided in a homelike setting.

If you are interested in assisted living or memory care facilities in Kansas City, contact The Piper today to schedule a tour!

Be A Detective For Your Parents, It May Be Time For Assisted Living Or Memory Care In Kansas City.

October 23, 2019 by The Piper

When the adult children of Seniors begin to worry about their parents living at home, it is time to do some investigation. It may be possible that there is really nothing to be concerned about but on the other hand there are some tell-tale signs that it’s time to think about a move to Assisted Living or Memory Care.

Here are some suggestions to help you investigate the situation and look for clues.

Give your mom or dad a big hug! Why?

Obvious weight loss can be a sign of depression or chronic illness. Shopping and cooking may be less frequent and the cause of weight loss.
Increased frailty may be obvious with a hug with decreased strength and movement.
Obvious weight gain may be an indication of injury, diabetes and even dementia.
Strong body odor may indicate poor hygiene and memory trouble or physical ailments might be noticeable on a very close inspection.

What can you learn by looking through a stack of mail?

Unopened personal mail is an obvious clue of failure. Everyone loves a personal letter even if the junk mail is left untouched.
Unopened bills can be a sign that your loved one is having difficulty managing finances—a first sign of dementia.
Thank you notes from a variety of charities may be a indication that an older adult may have fallen prey to phone appeals or multiple mailings. They may forget that they have already donated to a charity they love.

Take a drive with Mom or Dad behind the wheel and look for clues.

Nicks or dents as you enter and exit the car. These can be signs of careless driving.
Whether your loved one fastens his or her seatbelt. Rote basics are usually, but not always, remembered by someone with mild dementia.
Signs of tension, preoccupation, or being easily distracted. Is it hard for him or her to talk to you or listen to the radio and also pay close attention to the road?
Signs of impaired driving. Tailgating, slow reaction time, going consistently below speed limit, confusing gas and brake pedals are signs to watch for.
Dashboard warning lights. Does the car have sufficient oil, gas, antifreeze, windshield-wiper fluid?

Things to look for in the kitchen especially in the refrigerator.

Perishables past their expiration dates. If refrigerated items are past expiration dates, they may be unsafe.
Multiples of the same item. This might indicate that they don’t remember from one shopping trip to the next what’s in the cupboards at home.
Appliances that are broken and haven’t been repaired. Check the microwave, coffeemaker, toaster, washer, and dryer — any device you know your parent used to use routinely.
Signs of past fire. Look for charred stove knobs or pot bottoms, potholders with burned edges.
Increased takeout, simpler cooking or fast food trash. If someone who used to cook a lot no longer does, the explanation could be a change in physical or mental ability.

Take a good look at living areas.

Are there piles of clutter? Especially if this is a change for your loved one, being unable to throw anything away may be a sign of a neurological or physical issue.
Papers that are left on the floor are a particular tripping hazard.
Signs of spills that haven’t been picked up, or other signs of housekeeping that’s more lax than it once was. Spills are a common sign of dementia — the person lacks the follow-through to clean up after a mess.
Watch for clutter and grime in the bathroom. The condition of the bathroom may be a serious clue to the total attention of hygiene care.

Notice how the other living things are faring.

Plants that are dying, dead, or just gone. How well other life is looked after may reflect how well your parents can look after their own lives.
Animals that don’t seem well tended. Watch out for dogs with long nails, cat litter boxes that aren’t changed routinely, dead fish in the fish tank, or any animal that seems underfed or poorly groomed.

Walk around the grounds.

Signs of home maintenance problems. Look for discolored siding or ceilings that might indicate a leak, gutters choked with leaves, broken windows or fences.
Newspapers in the bushes. Check for papers that were delivered but ignored.
Mail piled up in the mailbox. Watch for this indication that your loved one doesn’t even retrieve it regularly.

Ask other friends and neighbors: Talk to those in your loved one’s circle.

Stories that reflect your loved one doesn’t get out much. “We don’t see her much lately.” “She doesn’t call anymore.”
Stories that reflect that your loved one has complained about health or needs extra assistance getting basic chores done.
Hints of concern in their voices. Listen for comments about your loved one — about his or her health, pets, anything.

Don’t feel guilty or awkward about becoming a detective for your loved one’s best interest.

There may be a sense of guilt about doing such sleuthing around your parents’ home, but it can provide an inside look at what the reality is. In the long run it may be a lifesaving exercise. All of these suggestions can be accomplished in a non-confrontive way and may help smooth the way for a healthy transition.

Staying at home is a goal shared by most, but when it becomes unmanageable or dangerous it is best to look for alternative living situations.

A move to a Assisted Living or a Memory Care facility in Kansas City may become an excellent option in order that our elders can continue to live out their fullest life without the safety issues and burdens of home ownership.

If you’ve noticed any of these signs with your loved one, it may be time to consider a move to Assisted Living or Memory Care. Contact The Piper today with questions or to schedule a tour.

Most Important Questions To Take With You When Touring Assisted Living Or Memory Care In Kansas City

October 17, 2019 by The Piper

The following list of questions can be used when touring Assisted Living or Memory Care facilities. Notes should be taken to eliminate confusion after visiting more than one community.

Our Own Observations

Listen to your own intuition. Not only may you see or hear things that are obvious, but you may just have a feeling about a community.

Are the employees smiling? Do they seem happy to be working there? Are they interacting with residents in a positive way? Feel free to ask them questions.
Does it seem clean? Does it smell pleasant? Does it smell like disinfectant?
Ask if the apartment will be painted and re-carpet between occupancy?
What kind of activity do you see? Do you see family members visiting?
Plan to eat a meal with residents or at least observe dining.
Observe the length of hallways for mobility issues
Do you see any pets? Are they allowed?
Is there an outdoor space to walk or sit?

Questions To Dig Deeper

What will my mom’s (or any loved one) day be like? Walk me through a typical day of a resident.
How will she make friends?
What kind of group activities are there? Do you have a bus to take residents out? Will you take her to the grocery store or Walmart?
Can she have privacy? Can she lock her door?
Will people come in unannounced?
Who will provide personal care?
What is the protocol when there is an emergency?
How do you handle a DNR? (If you don’t know about this and you are not sure of for your loved one, do some online research and ask questions to see if they have one.)
How are meals served? Can she eat in her apartment? Who cooks the food? May I see a menu? What if she is a fussy eater?
Are there structured mealtimes and table assignments she would have to follow?
Do you provide transportation to doctor appointments? Is there a charge?
Do you have an in-house physician she can see?
Can she have her own car?
What is the protocol for fire or tornados? Do residents practice with drills?

Financial Questions

What do you require to know about my mom’s finances?
What are the costs monthly? What is covered?
Do you do an assessment to determine the cost? Who does that?
Is there an investment requirement in addition to monthly rent?
Is there an upfront community fee? How much?
May I have a sheet explaining costs? Are there extra charges?
What is the move-out policy? How long is the lease?
Do you have any specials now? Does she bring her own furniture? Do you pay for the move?
Do you have a buy-in program or is it month to month?
Do you take Medicaid as a payer source?

If you’re interested in touring assisted living or memory care facilities in Kansas City, contact The Piper today.

Importance Of Scheduling Assisted Living And Memory Care Family Tours

October 4, 2019 by The Piper

Taking a number of Assisted Living and Memory Care family tours in Kansas City facilities will give a balanced understanding of the differences and similarities between communities.

Time should be allowed to give each community the opportunity to explain their philosophy and show their property.

Some shoppers feel they have an advantage by showing up unannounced to see what daily life is ‘really like’. It is understandable that people think this might be a good idea, but there are definite drawbacks.

Setting An Appointment To Tour Is Always Best.

Having assisted living and memory care family tours set up in advance will give everyone including the loved one the best experience.

The marketing consultant will have time to prepare collateral and custom plan the tour.

If there is previous knowledge of the person needing care that has been established beforehand the tour can be customized to include either Assisted Living or Memory Care.

By Setting Up An Appointment It May Be Easier To Gather Family Members That Will Be Decision-Makers.

Touring together helps get everyone on the same page. All the family will hear the same questions and answers.

When possible it is best to bring the Elder in need of care to participate in the tour. Often times the tour helps alleviate fears and misconceptions on their part.

When Visitors Decide Not To Set An Appointment To Tour It May Result In A Less Than Satisfactory Experience.

If a family shows up unannounced there is a good chance the marketing staff will be touring another family or engaged with a new move-in.

Since each tour can take an hour or more depending on the number of guests and questions asked, it may not be possible to wait for it to be over.

We never want to rush people in these situations because everyone agrees this is a very important decision.

Timeliness is critical in these situations and rushing a tour or giving a partial tour is not the best experience and may lead to misinformation and confusion.

Calling The Office And Talking To The Staff In Advance Of A Tour Is The Best Way To Have A Great Experience.

Everyone concerned wants the tour to be a good experience. Prior knowledge of the Elder’s needs is important for strategizing the best apartment to show, the proper level of care to suggest and understanding the possible costs involved.

An important addition to an assisted living and memory care family tour is that it may possible to arrange for the guests to talk to some of the current residents or stay for lunch and experience life in the community. All of this takes pre-planning on the part of the staff.

Although we would never turn down a walk-in tour because we understand that sometimes it is necessary, a call beforehand, even if it is brief, is extremely helpful to everyone involved.

The Tour Should Be An Enjoyable Experience.

Whether it is time to make a decision to move or it is just preliminary shopping the tour should be pleasant and informational. Our goal is to be the trusted advisor that can help with any concerns, questions or preplanning. Give us a call today and schedule a tour.

Red Flags To Watch For When Shopping For Assisted Living & Memory Care In Kansas City

September 27, 2019 by The Piper

When shopping for the best Assisted Living or Memory Care in the Kansas City area it is important to watch for red flags or areas of concern.

With appropriate questions and inquiry, the issues of concern may be resolved or could be a negative indicator. The following areas need a close look:

The Physical Structure Of The Assisted Living Facility Needs To Be Considered Carefully.

It is essential that when a move is made into a community that it is a good fit for the individual. Oftentimes these facilities are built for maximum occupancy with less focus on the needs of the residents. At the time of life when an elder needs care, it can be overwhelming to move into a building that looks like a big hotel or a resort. As you observe the physical plant itself you will want to consider these deeper questions.

Will your loved one be able to negotiate the distances between their private apartment space and the common spaces such as dining and activities?
Are the hallways long and do they look overwhelming?
Will your loved one be able to walk the distance or will they need wheelchair assistance?
Is it necessary to get on an elevator to go to a dining room?
Is the dining area loud and difficult for those with hearing loss?
Is the dining room so large that it is hard to make an easy path with a walker or mobility device?
What are the provisions in case of fire or a weather event?

Where Is Personal Care Provided?

The issue of personal privacy is very important. Facilities need to be designed so residents have space for their own personal items and space for visitation of family and friends. It is especially important that all medical care is done in private. The following questions help you discover any red flags:

Do the residents have to trek to a separate room or office for medications, bathing, and health checks?
Is privacy provided for personal care?
Where are individual resident’s medications stored and how and where are they administered?
Is the private apartment big enough for company to come?

Who Provides The Daily Care?

It seems obvious that most people that are receiving personal care in an Assisted Living or Memory Care community would prefer to interact with the same caregivers on a daily basis.

Familiarity with staff improves comfort and security. When staff changes daily or multiple times a day there may be a breakdown of confidence.

There may be occasions when a new caregiver creates a sense of embarrassment or awkwardness. Questions to ask to dig deeper:

How many staff member will be caring for my loved one?
Does staff work for an entire building, a floor or a specific group of residents?
Will my loved one see the same caregivers every day?
Will they call my mother by her name and know her personally?
Are their universal workers or do employees only do specific jobs, such a dietary staff, bathing staff, housekeeping staff?
Is there 24-hour staffing and what are the night staff responsibilities?
What is the staff to resident ratio and will it change if my loved one needs more help?

What Is The Dining Experience On A Daily Basis?

Most would agree that food is very important for all of us especially as you grow older.

There is a great deal of pleasure in not only eating a meal but sharing it with others in a communal space. Mealtimes are favorites.

Facilities have different approaches to food preparation. It is essential for those shopping for Assisted Living understand the dietary philosophy of the community.

Two basic approaches are typical.

The first is the Chef or dietary approach which is best described as a top to bottom plan. The Chef plans the meals and prepares food and offers some choices to the residents but mainly focuses on the facility meal plan, costs and efficiency.

The second is what you might call a resident-focused approach or a bottom to top plan. In this model, the resident gets to choose what to eat and it is prepared for them individually. Here are some questions to ask to look for the red flags

Will my mom get to eat her favorite foods?
My dad loves ice cream before he goes to bed, is that possible?
Are there personal choice snacks available during the day?
Can my loved one ask for a special meal?
How many choices are available every day?
What are the meal times and can you eat when you want?
My mom sleeps late so can she have breakfast at 11:00 in the morning?
Does the Chef actually talk to the residents or get feedback on meals?

Clear Financing Is Critical.

A very important area to research carefully and watch for red flags in Assisted Living in the Kansas City community is the issue of finances.

Since different communities compute their charges differently, it is important to know if you are comparing apples to apples.

This can raise many red flags. Hidden charges must be clarified so that you know the exact amount that will be paid monthly. Asking the following question will dip deeper.

What is the base rate for room and board?
Does the base rate cover all meals and snacks?
Does the base rate cover personal hygiene products like toilet paper, tissues, shampoo, and hand soap?
Is housekeeping included?
Is transportation to appointments included?
What is the additional charge for healthcare services?
Are there levels of care?
Does the resident and family have input for the level of care?
When would the level of care be increased?
Is it possible for the level of care to go down?
How long is the lease?
How is the lease terminated?
What happens if my loved one runs out of money?
Can payments be automated through the bank?
What unexpected charges might arise?

Red Flags In Assisted Living And Memory Care Are Points Of Clarification, They Do Not Mean A Community Is Not A Good Fit.

It is best to understand all these issues before making a decision.

Careful planning and in-depth question can smooth the path for a good adjustment into a community and it is well worth the time to dig deeper.

Looking for help with Assisted Living and Memory Care decisions? Contact The Piper today!

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