Probably the question that most bothers children of the elderly is whether or not their parents are getting the best care possible in their assisted living arrangements. This is a valid concern as one always feels a little guilt ridden that we cannot care for them ourselves.  This is natural and not something we should feel guilty about but the feeling lingers nevertheless.

The best way to put your mind at ease and ensure that your parents are getting the best care is to consider their needs.  How independent are they? Can they manage on their own with a little help or do they need full time supervision and care?  These sort of questions decide for you whether they need assisted living services or a more comprehensive option like assisted living facilities or retirement residential homes.

There is no right or wrong answer. It is important to try as much as possible for the elderly to maintain their self respect and live as  independently as possible for as long as possible.  Visit them regularly to make sure that they are getting the basic care they need.  Take note during these visits of any signs of elder abuse but remember that old folk do bruise easily so be sure of your facts before accusing staff of abuse.

If you loved ones seem malnourished, unkempt and seem to have unexplained injuries you need to find somewhere else for them to go.  Any good facility will have staff that are kind and caring and if you take a casual look at the other residents, you will see if they look happy and content.  If most of them seem well cared for, then you can be certain that your parent will also be well cared for.