How to Choose a Texas Assisted Living - Licensing Differences

If your loved one needs help with daily tasks but doesn't need intensive medical care, "assisted living" may be the answer. It's a way to let him live independently in a safe and caring atmosphere.

What is Assisted Living Like?

Sometimes an assisted living home is part of a larger nursing care center or hospital, retirement community, or senior housing complex. Or it may be an independent place that isn't linked to other outfits. Many facilities also invest in programs that enhance quality of life - think art and pet therapy, computer and piano lounges, and community outings.

Most people who live in assisted living are seniors. Some may have Alzheimer's or other forms of dementia. Others may have certain disabilities. There are some who move in close to the minimum age requirement (usually about 65), but most make the move between the ages of 75 and 84. The typical assisted living resident is an 87-year-old woman who needs help with two or three activities of daily living, such as dressing, bathing and medication management.

Residents have their own private apartment with a bedroom, bathroom, small kitchen, and living area. Or they can share an apartment with a roommate.

Most places also have common areas where people can socialize and do activities. So you can get privacy if you want it, but also a sense of community.Assisted living facilities usually provide residents with their own apartments or rooms, as well as some common areas. They offer around-the-clock supervision and a range of services, including meals, housekeeping and laundry, as well as assistance with personal care and help with medications

With the baby boomers rapidly approaching retirement age (and those with aging parents) it seems like more and more are turning to assisted living for assistance. These individuals who are no longer able to do all of the things they once could need assistance taking care of things for them.

If you are looking for a facility for your loved one you want to make sure you get somewhere that is going to provide them with the care and compassion they deserve. There is so much to learn that it can become a bit overwhelming.

You don't want just anyone taking care of your loved one. You want someone who has ample experience in the field to make sure the job is done right. The last thing you want is your family member to be a victim of abuse or neglect. Make sure to ask more about the staff members' background.

What training do they have?
How long have they been working in the field?
Do they have a clean background?

All of these things are crucial when it comes to choosing the perfect assisted living home for someone you know and love.

State License Types: A vs. B

In a Type A facility a resident must be physically and mentally capable of evacuating the facility unassisted. This may include the mobile non-ambulatory persons such as those who are in wheelchairs or electric carts and have the capacity to transfer and evacuate themselves in an emergency. This resident does not require routine attendance during nighttime sleeping hours and must be capable of following directions under emergency conditions.

In a Type B facility a resident may require staff assistance to evacuate and may be incapable of following directions under emergency conditions. They may require attendance during nighttime sleeping hours. The resident may not be permanently bedfast, but may require assistance in transferring to and from a wheelchair.

In Texas, type B assisted living communities are licensed to offer care for seniors with memory loss or limited mobility.

Sizes Personal Care Homes by Definition
Small - Small facilities are defined as those with 16 residents or less.
Large - Large facilities are defined as those with 17 residents or more.

Remember, when finding a personal care home keep in mind that in the state of Texas, they are licensed according to size, type and building safety features so be sure to ask what type of license they have. Some personal care homes host three or fewer residents, and therefore, do not require licensing.

Another key thing to think about is whether there is someone there who can care for your loved ones around the clock. You don't want something to happen in the middle of the night and not have someone there who can help. This could end up leaving your loved one severely injured, paralyzed or possibly even dead.

You need to make sure that the facility has the proper care on hand at all times. This way you know that your loved one will always be okay, even if something happens at three in the morning.

You also want to know that your loved one is able to partake in different activities. You don't want them sitting around and doing nothing. You want to make sure they are able to do something they will enjoy. Whether it is playing cards, taking a walk or enjoying their favorite music, everyone deserves to have fun and enjoy spending time with their loved ones.

By taking the time to look through the different things above, you can make sure that your loved one is going to get everything they need and more with the facility you choose.

Related Articles:

How to Choose Assisted Living

Differences: Type A vs. Type B License