There are several factors to consider when choosing the Consultant best suited for your family. We urge you to ask pertinent questions as follows:
✓ What is the reputation of the Consultant? What are their credentials? Explore the educational background and work experience of the Consultant.
✓ Have they worked in a Senior Living Community in a position that provided vast experience in counseling Seniors and their families?
✓ Have they ever worked in a clinical setting with a keen understanding of the aging process from a bio psychosocial perspective? Do they understand the cognitive and physical deficits often associated with neurological and/or orthopedic conditions commonly seen in the elderly, and how these deficits impact their level of independence?
✓ Are they able to recognize depression and social isolation and identify when professional treatment is necessary?
✓ Do they have supportive professional services that will help with transitional counseling before, during, and after moving into a community?
✓ Ask them to articulate the manner in which they will work with your family: Are they willing to meet with you in the comfort of your home to evaluate the needs and concerns of both the Senior and their family? Will they accompany you on each visit to a community? Will they review each visit and help guide you throughout the entire decision-making process?
✓ Ask for a list of families that they can contact that have used their services in the past.
✓ What type of follow-up services do they offer after you move into a Senior Living Community?
✓ Have they a proven, dedicated and successful track record?
✓ Senior Lifestyle Consultants are paid through contracts they have with Senior Living Communities. Make certain that all of the services that they provide are at no cost to you.
✓ Most importantly, is the Consultant compassionate, understanding and caring? Are they providing the emotional support needed throughout this process? Are they willing to give you the time and effort necessary to make a well-informed decision?
✓ Do you think that they will be able to connect and relate to your parent(s), as well as, your family?
