Tuesday, March 31, 2020

4 Steps to Help Seniors Plan for a Move to Assisted Living with Pets


  • 4 Steps to Help Seniors Plan for a Move to
    Assisted Living with Pets
    Your pets are like family. So, when it comes time to transition into an assisted living facility, it
    only makes sense to factor them into the equation. If you are just beginning your search and
    plan for the right assisted living community, you may find these tips extremely helpful.
    How to Find Pet-Friendly Assisted Living
    If you’re not sure where to start when it comes to finding an assisted living home for you and
    your pet, then services like those from Senior Veterans Care Network may come in handy. You
    can use these online search tools to locate local assisted living and senior care options on your
    own, or you can speak with a rep over the phone who can help you locate pet-friendly assisted
    living communities near you.
    Wondering what to look for in assisted living aside from a welcoming pet policy? Well, that can
    depend on your needs, but you want to ensure your new home is safe and comfortable. If you
    want to be near loved ones, you should look for an assisted living facility that is close by, but

  • also consider moving to one that provides the services you need now as well as easy transitions
    to additional services you may need in the future.
    How to Pay for Pet-Friendly Assisted Living
    You should be able to find a pet-friendly facility or community in your preferred location, but
    having that extra amenity could result in higher costs. Average assisted living costs are right
    around $3,628 per month, but average monthly rates can vary from state to state. Plus, you may
    end up paying for a pet policy or other features, like a private room or concierge services. It’s
    important to keep these rates in mind and to confirm costs with your top picks for pet-friendly
    assisted living, so you can create a reasonable plan for paying for care costs. If you are a
    veteran, you may be able to receive a monthly stipend to help out with your assisted living
    expenses, but other seniors can also turn to loved ones or even consider self-funding care. If
    you are merely planning ahead, you can also look into long-term care insurance policies.
    How to Provide Care for Pets in Assisted Living
    In addition to planning for long-term care costs, you may also need to plan for pet care. If you’re
    concerned about physical or mental health limitations impacting your ability to care for your pet,
    then picking up a few helpful pet supplies could be the solution. Cat water fountains, for
    example, can provide fresh water for your feline companions and save you the hassle of
    constantly bending over to refill bowls. Not to mention that keeping your cat hydrated can
    reduce the risk of health problems, which is important for avoiding costly vet bills.
    For dog owners, ensuring pups get enough exercise can be a challenge. So, if your assisted
    living community does not offer dog-walking services, consider hiring a dog walker instead.
    How to Prepare Pets for a Move to Assisted Living
    With your assisted living and pet care plans all sorted out, you can begin preparing for the
    transition to assisted living. Keep in mind that as stressful as this move may be for you, moving
    can be even more stressful for pets. Moving with pets, especially if they have anxiety, requires
    proper planning and preparation, so begin making arrangements now to keep your best friend
    calm and healthy. Pick up any pet-proofing essentials you may need in your new home, and
    also be sure to pack your pet’s belongings last. That way, you will be able to open that box first
    to help your dog or cat settle into the new place. Settling yourself in can also take some
    planning, but it can be helpful for both you and your pet to stick to routines and explore your
    new community. Above all, have some patience as you both adjust to your new life and home.
    Bringing your pets can ease the move into assisted living. Just make sure you have the right
    plan for finding a community, paying for care, and keeping your pet happy and healthy.
    Photo Credit: Unsplash

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