Source: The Care Guide

As part of an effort to educate the public, de-mystify the seniors’ care industry and help seniors and their families make informed decisions for their future, The Care Guide and its industry partners present Open Doors an annual awareness campaign that aims to help seniors' and their families better understand the seniors' housing options available to them, and affords the public a welcoming opportunity to connect with the fine homes and residences in their communities.

“Selecting a retirement residence or long-term care home for your aging relative can present challenges because the variety of housing options available can cause confusion,” said Derek Mercey, Vice President, The Care Guide. “I am excited about Open Doors because it is a day of education, awareness and community. Visitors will see firsthand what today's retirement residences and long-term care homes offer and how homes have changed drastically in the past several years eclipsing their ideas about what a residence is and looks like.”

Finding the right residence is as individual as you are – it’s where you or your loved one will make a home, make new friends and live life to the fullest. There are some basic steps that should be taken in order to ensure that the home fits the individual. When attending Open Doors, The Care Guide recommends keeping these ten considerations in mind:

1. Define your requirements and distinguish between wants and needs. Do you need a residence - or home health care services? Find a free assessment tool to help you with the answer.
2. Where should the residence be located? Make sure it is proximate to friends and family; visitors are very important! Is urban or suburban preferred, how will the resident be transported to and from family events, and so on.
3. What is the demeanour of people currently at the home? Take the time to speak with residents. Visit at different times and on different days during the week. Schedule a visit during the weekend and another on the weekend. Are residents involved in activities or are they spending hours by the television?
4. How much can you afford to spend? Cost varies depending on the type of provider. Independent/supported living services are generally privately owned, where as some assisted living and long-term care homes may be subsidized by government programs. There may be wide variances in budget - and availability. Find out what is included - and what is considered an extra.
5. Review the home's latest inspection report. What are the provisions for safety and ease of use? Are there sufficient elevators? How are dangerous substances and medications kept out of reach from residents? Is the home easy to navigate? Is it well lit? Are there sufficient bathing facilities? Are washrooms easily accessible?
6. What is the demeanour of residence employees and are they certified? Are they happy and well-paid? Ask staff how they feel about working at the home, and ask residents about the staff. Find out about certification and medical training, number of medical personnel on staff. Is the home adequately staffed during off-hours or on the weekends?
7. Tour the residence's kitchen and ask to review menus. Does the home provide well-balanced meals? Will they accommodate those with special dietary requirements? Ask about feeding assistance if your relative requires it.
8. What type of activities does the residence run? Do they provide additional programs through communities and volunteer organizations to encourage sociability and satisfaction among residents? Are suggestions and recommendations welcome and followed-up on?
9. What type of amenities does the home offer? Some residences offer additional amenities such as in-room televisions and music systems, private suites with carpeting and drapery, which can be filled with their own decorations or furniture and more. Some also allow pets.
10. Arrange for a trial stay. Many homes permit overnight or short-term stay, and can also be a viable alternative during short-term illnesses or family absence - good time to try a residence on for size!

Individuals contemplating residential choices for themselves or their family members are invited to visit long-term care homes and retirement residences participating in Open Doors in their area for tours, events and more.