It can be disheartening when you find the perfect assisted living residency for your aging loved one, only to find out you’ll be on a waiting list to get them in. The best advice is to get on the waiting list before you need senior care, but for many, by the time they get this information, it’s too late.

When you do find a residence that meets your needs, be prepared to put a deposit down to hold your spot on the waitlist. Make sure you understand the company’s refund policy so you are clear about the policy if your loved one changes their mind. Make sure you ask the average wait time and if there is an “inside” waiting list that gives priority of open rooms to existing residents because any of these factors may motivate you to look elsewhere.

While You’re Waiting

There isn’t much you can do about the waitlist, but there are things you can try that can make it easier for your loved one to age in place while you wait. Below are some tips to help your loved one stay comfortable while waiting for a place at an assisted living home.
Whether your loved one has their own place or they’re staying with a relative, consider making some adjustments to their living quarters. If their bedroom is located on an upper floor, make them a space on the lower level so they can avoid stairs. It may also benefit them to be closer to outdoor spaces or shared living spaces where they can be social with other family members without having to go downstairs.

Consider rearranging furniture or the layout of certain spaces in the home, so your loved one can move around more easily, especially if they use a walker. Make sure pathways have plenty of room to pass through safely, so they can feel comfortable moving about. It’s very important to keep your aging loved one moving, but it’s just as important to keep them safe by minimizing the risk of a fall.
If your loved one can’t be left alone, set up a family calendar that allocates time for each family member to spend part of the day at home or stop by to sit with your loved one. Meal times can also be shared and included in the calendar to make sure they are getting three nutritious meals a day. Meal deliveries can also eliminate the need to cook and clean up.

For the days that family can’t be there, consider Marquette Home Care. Our experienced and compassionate in-home caregivers can help with homemaking, grocery shopping, transportation to medical appointments, personal care, companionship, and nurse visits. We give our clients peace of mind and an opportunity for friendly conversation and interaction.

Assisted living residences are filling up across the country, and Marquette and the surrounding communities are no exception. If you’ve been waitlisted at an assisted living home for your loved one, Marquette Home Care can help until an opening becomes available. We provide in home care for clients in Marquette and the surrounding areas of Negaunee, Ishpeming, Harvey, Skandia, and Gwinn. Call us for more information at 906-361-8022