EP 173: What to Expect When Moving into Assisted Living

This Is Getting Old Podcast with Melissa B PhD

“Understanding the unique needs of each resident requires a holistic approach that goes beyond medical care.”

—Melissa Batchelor, PhD, RN, FNP, FGSA, FAAN

In this episode, Melissa Batchelor and Rebecca Adelman explore the crucial topic of managing expectations in assisted living. Drawing from their extensive experience, they shed light on the five key domains that significantly impact residents and their families in assisted living facilities.

DOMAIN 1: COMMUNICATION

We discuss the importance of clear, transparent communication between residents, families, and the caregiving team. From daily routines to healthcare updates, understanding the nuances of communication helps create an environment of trust and support.

DOMAIN 2: FAMILY SYSTEMS

It’s a necessity to understand the unique needs and expectations of both residents and their families. Assisted living is more than physical care; it's about recognizing the emotional, spiritual, and cultural aspects that shape an individual's well-being. The key lies in adopting a holistic approach that goes beyond medical care, fostering an environment where residents feel seen, heard, and truly understood.

DOMAIN 3: GOALS OF CARE

From advanced care planning to end-of-life discussions, this domain explores the delicate yet pivotal conversations surrounding desires, wishes, and how one envisions the later stages of life. We emphasize the need for proactive discussions, empowering families to make informed decisions aligned with their loved ones' wishes.

DOMAIN 4: AGING PROCESS

We challenge the misconception that normal aging implies a decline, highlighting the diversity among older adults. Emphasizing the role of health literacy as a powerful tool, we empower families to navigate the complexities of chronic illness and aging. Our goal is to reshape the conversation and promote a more inclusive understanding of the aging experience.

DOMAIN 5: EMOTIONAL AND SPIRITUAL HEALTH

Acknowledging the impact of religion, spirituality, and diverse belief systems, we highlight the importance of creating an environment that respects and nurtures these facets. This domain serves as the emotional compass, guiding families through the challenges and joys of assisted living.

Whether you're a family member, caregiver, or simply curious about elder care, this episode is packed with valuable information.

Download Rebecca Adelman's Guide Path white paper here: https://guidepathllc.com/guide-path-collective

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About MelissaBPhD

Melissa Batchelor, PhD, RN, FNP, FGSA, FAAN. I am a nurse, nurse practitioner, nurse Please visit my website at MelissaBPhD.com to learn more about me, how you can work with me directly, and/or support future episodes of the podcast. Within the first 18 months of launching this podcast, we reached a ranking of top 10% globally.

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About Rebecca Adelman

Rebecca Adelman is a lawyer, entrepreneur, influencer, and thought leader in healthcare, senior living, and risk management. For over 30 years, Rebecca has concentrated her practice on healthcare, insurance defense, employment, and business litigation. She is also an arbitrator for the American Health Lawyers Association.

Also in 2021, Ms. Adelman founded Guide Path, LLC, an Expectations and Risk Management Certification Program created for resident, family and provider engagement to mitigate risk, improve quality of care and regulatory compliance. Guide Path, the new standard of excellence for senior living certification, delivers a paradigm shift in the way senior living care providers understand, establish, and manage resident and family expectations in assisted living and skilled nursing communities along the continuum of care.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/rebeccaadelmanesq/