What to Look For When Touring Retirement Communities
02/18/25 • 24 min
Caring For Your Aging Parents Podcast
Season 02 Episode 19
What to Look For When Touring Retirement Communities
Check out this episode to unlock the secrets to finding the ideal senior living community for your loved ones. I’m Lynn Smargis, a certified senior advisor, here to guide you through this often overwhelming journey with insights from my book, "Sensible Senior Solutions."
In this episode, I delve into the complexities of senior care options, offering professional advice that can transform your search from daunting to manageable. Discover why seeking guidance from a senior advisor is as crucial as hiring an attorney or realtor, and learn how their expertise can help you avoid common pitfalls, such as choosing a community based on proximity or personal ties.
I share a compelling story of a family who transitioned from a confusing DIY search to successfully settling in a suitable senior living community within weeks. We discuss the importance of considering factors like medical needs, staff ratios, and pet policies when evaluating communities. Whether you're planning early or feeling overwhelmed, I emphasize the value of connecting with certified senior advisors who offer their services at no cost to families.
Remember, caregivers: it’s important to prioritize self-care, a vital theme throughout our caregiving journey. Join us as we explore the art of making informed decisions for your aging parents, ensuring their well-being and happiness. Don’t forget to follow the podcast for more insights on senior care. Let's navigate this journey together with confidence and clarity.
Podcast Resources
Caring For Your Aging Parents on YouTube
Visit us to find out more on Caring for Your Aging Parents
Caring for Your Aging Parents is brought to you by Pacific Northwest Seniorcare
Podcast disclaimer
The information in the Pacific Northwest Seniorcare podcast is for educational and informational purposes only. The content shared by the host, guests, and any affiliates is not intended to substitute for professional medical, legal, or financial advice or any professional advice specific to your situation. Always seek the advice of a qualified professional with any questions you may have regarding these matters.
The host is not a medical or legal expert, and the opinions expressed on the show by the host or guests are those of the individuals and do not necessarily reflect the views of Pacific Northwest Seniorcare. Pacific Northwest Seniorcare, the host, guests, and affiliates are not responsible or liable for any care, medical, or legal decisions made by listeners or actions taken hereto based on the information discussed in this podcast. By listening to this podcast, you acknowledge and agree to release Pacific Northwest Seniorcare, the host, affiliates, and guests from any liability.
Caring For Your Aging Parents Podcast
Season 02 Episode 19
What to Look For When Touring Retirement Communities
Check out this episode to unlock the secrets to finding the ideal senior living community for your loved ones. I’m Lynn Smargis, a certified senior advisor, here to guide you through this often overwhelming journey with insights from my book, "Sensible Senior Solutions."
In this episode, I delve into the complexities of senior care options, offering professional advice that can transform your search from daunting to manageable. Discover why seeking guidance from a senior advisor is as crucial as hiring an attorney or realtor, and learn how their expertise can help you avoid common pitfalls, such as choosing a community based on proximity or personal ties.
I share a compelling story of a family who transitioned from a confusing DIY search to successfully settling in a suitable senior living community within weeks. We discuss the importance of considering factors like medical needs, staff ratios, and pet policies when evaluating communities. Whether you're planning early or feeling overwhelmed, I emphasize the value of connecting with certified senior advisors who offer their services at no cost to families.
Remember, caregivers: it’s important to prioritize self-care, a vital theme throughout our caregiving journey. Join us as we explore the art of making informed decisions for your aging parents, ensuring their well-being and happiness. Don’t forget to follow the podcast for more insights on senior care. Let's navigate this journey together with confidence and clarity.
Podcast Resources
Caring For Your Aging Parents on YouTube
Visit us to find out more on Caring for Your Aging Parents
Caring for Your Aging Parents is brought to you by Pacific Northwest Seniorcare
Podcast disclaimer
The information in the Pacific Northwest Seniorcare podcast is for educational and informational purposes only. The content shared by the host, guests, and any affiliates is not intended to substitute for professional medical, legal, or financial advice or any professional advice specific to your situation. Always seek the advice of a qualified professional with any questions you may have regarding these matters.
The host is not a medical or legal expert, and the opinions expressed on the show by the host or guests are those of the individuals and do not necessarily reflect the views of Pacific Northwest Seniorcare. Pacific Northwest Seniorcare, the host, guests, and affiliates are not responsible or liable for any care, medical, or legal decisions made by listeners or actions taken hereto based on the information discussed in this podcast. By listening to this podcast, you acknowledge and agree to release Pacific Northwest Seniorcare, the host, affiliates, and guests from any liability.
Previous Episode
Talking to Your Parents About Moving into Retirement Living
Caring For Your Aging Parents
Season 02 Episode 18
Talking to Your Parents About Moving into Retirement Living
Delve into the intricate journey of long-distance caregiving, drawing from my personal experiences while supporting my father through his battle with stage four cancer. This journey opened my eyes to the challenges many face when discussing retirement living options with aging parents. Throughout this episode, I share practical advice on navigating these sensitive conversations with empathy and respect, aiming to preserve dignity and maintain strong relationships.
Tackle the hurdles of long-distance caregiving, weighing the financial and logistical aspects of home care versus assisted living. Drawing from my book, "Sensible Senior Solutions," I share effective communication strategies designed to honor your parent's independence while also addressing their fears. Discover how to create win-win scenarios, like encouraging your parents to give up driving without feeling a loss of autonomy, and explore the benefits of retirement living communities.
I emphasize the importance of building a supportive network of trusted allies and prioritizing self-care as a caregiver. I also cover how to start the appropriate conversations early, research options in advance, and maintain organized notes for productive discussions.
(00:19) - Conversations on Caregiving and Aging
(13:11) - Effective Communication Strategies for Caregivers
(18:38) - Supporting Aging Parents With Dignity
Podcast Resources
Caring For Your Aging Parents on YouTube
Visit us to find out more on Caring for Your Aging Parents
Caring for Your Aging Parents is brought to you by Pacific Northwest Seniorcare
Connect with seniors on the Helperly website
Podcast disclaimer
The information in the Pacific Northwest Seniorcare podcast is for educational and informational purposes only. The content shared by the host, guests, and any affiliates is not intended to substitute for professional medical, legal, or financial advice or any professional advice specific to your situation. Always seek the advice of a qualified professional with any questions you may have regarding these matters.
The host is not a medical or legal expert, and the opinions expressed on the show by the host or guests are those of the individuals and do not necessarily reflect the views of Pacific Northwest Seniorcare. Pacific Northwest Seniorcare, the host, guests, and affiliates are not responsible or liable for any care, medical, or legal decisions made by listeners or actions taken hereto based on the information discussed in this podcast. By listening to this podcast, you acknowledge and agree to release Pacific Northwest Seniorcare, the host, affiliates, and guests from any liability.
Next Episode
Redefining Yourself After Retirement with Joe Cassiani
Join me for a thought-provoking conversation with Joe Casciani, a seasoned geropsychologist and founder of the Living to 100 Club. Together, we challenge the conventional views on aging and retirement, emphasizing that turning 50 or retiring doesn't mean slowing down. Instead, it's a time ripe with potential for reinvention and embracing new opportunities with a positive mindset.
In our discussion, Joe shares his journey from nursing home administration to becoming an advocate for a fulfilling post-retirement life. We delve into Joanne Lipman's book "Next," which highlights individuals who have successfully navigated new roles after retiring. These stories illustrate the resilience and determination required to leverage past skills into meaningful endeavors, whether through volunteerism or community projects.
We also explore innovative tools for nurturing mental wellness in senior living communities. Joe introduces a series of card decks designed to address the psychological aspects of aging, empowering seniors and activity directors to foster discussions on mental health education. These resources aim to fill the gap left by traditional wellness programs that often overlook mental health.
Follow along as we emphasize the importance of self-care and invite you to become part of the Living to 100 Club for ongoing support and inspiration. Don't forget to engage with our podcast community by liking, subscribing, and leaving a review. Together, let's redefine aging and thrive in the later chapters of life.
(00:19) - Redefining Yourself After Retirement
(09:18) - Finding Purpose in Retirement
(23:35) - Maximizing Senior Wellness
(33:26) - Embracing Aging After Retirement
Podcast Resources
Caring For Your Aging Parents on YouTube
Visit us to find out more on Caring for Your Aging Parents
Caring for Your Aging Parents is brought to you by Pacific Northwest Seniorcare
Silver Sneakers exercise program for seniors
For a series of 12 modules for senior living communities, visit Joe’s online store
To find a supportive space for members to connect, share insights, and access valuable resources, join Joe’s online community
Podcast disclaimer
The information in the Pacific Northwest Seniorcare podcast is for educational and informational purposes only. The content shared by the host, guests, and any affiliates is not intended to substitute for professional medical, legal, or financial advice or any professional advice specific to your situation. Always seek the advice of a qualified professional with any questions you may have regarding these matters.
The host is not a medical or legal expert, and the opinions expressed on the show by the host or guests are those of the individuals and do not necessarily reflect the views of Pacific Northwest Seniorcare. Pacific Northwest Seniorcare, the host, guests, and affiliates are not responsible or liable for any care, medical, or legal decisions made by listeners or actions taken hereto based on the information discussed in this podcast. By listening to this podcast, you acknowledge and agree to release Pacific Northwest Seniorcare, the host, affiliates, and guests from any liability.
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