Dear Paul:
My mom had her annual physical with her primary care doctor last month. She has cut back on her driving lately so she asked me to take her to the appointment. Glad I did! It turns out that what our family assumed were the normal signs of aging are actually the early signs of Alzheimer’s disease. While I thought there might be something more going on with Mom, it really never occurred to me that it was Alzheimer’s.
Since our father passed away two years ago, my brother and I have been splitting different errands and tasks around their house. So even though we each live about an hour away from Mom, one or both of us is there with Mom at least once a week. But I know this probably won’t be enough to keep her safe as her disease progresses.
We are going to sit down with our mom over the Easter holiday and talk with her about her finances and her wishes for future care. Before that time though, I think it’s important for us to learn more about the types of dementia care that are available.
Mom lives in Fort Worth and my brother and I both live in Dallas. We are hoping she will consent to moving closer to us. It looks like there are assisted living communities that offer Alzheimer’s care and residential care facilities. From the photos I’ve found online, residential care homes look more like a private home.
Do you have any advice for us as we try to educate ourselves on the options?
Anita
Residential Care Homes in Dallas and Fort Worth, Texas
Dear Anita:
I know firsthand how tough this disease can be for families. In fact, my mother’s diagnosis of Alzheimer’s and our struggle to find quality care for her is what led me to start Senior Living Specialists eight years ago. The process of trying to learn more about each type of senior care and then trying to find a local care provider that met my Mom’s needs was overwhelming.
Residential care homes are an option many people are unaware of when they begin their search for senior living. But these communities can definitely be a good solution. Some of the feedback we often receive from families we worked with who have chosen one include:
- As you mentioned, most residential care homes resemble a private home. For many seniors, the cozy, home-like environment can make the transition easier for people with dementia.
- Because these care centers typically have fewer residents, the ratio of caregivers per resident is better. That is one of the most important factors to consider when choosing a senior care community for a senior loved one.
- Residential care homes are generally less expensive than a larger assisted living community. In north Texas, the monthly cost at one ranges between $1,800 and $4,500 per month compared with $2,000 to $9,000 for an assisted living community.
I would like to extend an invitation to you and your brother to talk with one of our experienced senior care advisors. We know the residential care homes in the Dallas and Fort Worth areas well and can offer you advice and guidance as you search for a care provider you can feel confident in.
Please contact me to schedule a time that is convenient for both of you.
Kind Regards,
Paul
Senior Living Specialists is a free service for seniors and their families. We are compensated by a referral fee when a senior moves into a community or care home. Please call us today at 214-929-5055 to get the search started.
