“Just an old sweet song keeps Georgia on my mind.” This line, from the famous song “Georgia”, was made popular by the legendary Ray Charles. It’s the official state song of Georgia, and represents the view’s of millions of people who choose to live in this beautiful state. Georgia is known for its sunny, subtropical climate, mild winters, many lakes and rivers, beautiful forests, and world-class healthcare and other amenities available in the city of Atlanta. It’s an increasingly popular choice for those seeking an ideal assisted living environment.
Not only is Georgia full of positive attributes, it has a moderate cost-of-living, and that applies to assisted living as well. The annual Genworth Cost of Care survey tracks care costs around the country. In its 2014 survey, the state of Georgia had a monthly assisted living median cost of $2500, which is a full $1000/month less than the national median cost. In some areas of the state, such as the beautifully wooded town of Warner Robins, assisted living can cost even less than $2500/month.
Since you’re reading this blog, you’ve likely begun to do some research into various assisted living options in Georgia. As you probably already know, assisted living communities provide long-term living arrangements for seniors who need some assistance with the Activities of Daily Living (ADL). But, not all assisted living centers are created equal. Here are some important factors to consider as you look for the best assisted living options in Georgia for your elder loved ones.
All the Comforts of Home
Your loved ones took care of you as you were growing up. Now it’s your chance to repay mom and dad by helping them to find an assisted living environment that feels as much like their own home as possible. Look for a community that offers large and cozy rooms; privacy; and the ability to decorate with personal furniture and accessories.
Personalized Custom Care
Make sure that staff are highly trained and able to provide personal care services custom-designed for your loved one. Not all assisted living communities offer a high level of individual care, so seek out those that do.
Access to Major Healthcare
Sometimes it’s important when evaluating assisted living options in Georgia to find one that’s near major healthcare centers in Atlanta. One such option is the Union City area, located only 17 miles from Atlanta. Your loved one might enjoy living in a grand Victorian home that’s nestled in the trees and is accessible to local and metropolitan hospitals, restaurants and world-class shopping.
A Continuum of Care choices, Including Dementia Care
One of the best choices you can make for your elder loved one is to provide the security of a permanent home, once mom or dad moves to a senior community. One such option is a community that provides independent living, assisted living and dementia care, provided in a secure environment, all in one community setting. If your loved one is suffering from Alzheimer’s disease or other type of dementia, finding a secure setting that still feels like home is vital. One of the best types of dementia care communities offers a cozy “village” setting. Each village accommodates a small number of residents, to create a safe family atmosphere. The villages have their own kitchen, dining and activity areas. Stimulating activities created by experts in eldercare and dementia meet the needs and abilities of residents who may have varying degrees of memory loss and cognitive function.
Finding the best assisted living options in Georgia can be simplified, when you know the right questions. What concerns can we help answer?