Category: Assisted Living

Making the decision about assisted living for a loved one rarely happens overnight. It’s typically a gradual realization that unfolds through small changes in daily routines, health, or overall well-being. At NorBella Senior Living at Savage, we understand that this decision is filled with complex emotions and questions about maintaining independence while ensuring safety and happiness.

Sometimes the signs are subtle – missed medications, pulling back from social activities, or seeming less steady on their feet. Other times, they’re more obvious. Recognizing these changes early allows families time for thoughtful conversations and planning, ultimately leading to better outcomes for everyone involved.

If you’re having nagging concerns about the safety and well-being of someone you care about, assisted living can offer a welcome balance. Our boutique community setting provides the support needed while helping your loved one maintain the life they love in our cozy, intimate environment near Savage’s peaceful residential neighborhoods.

Quick Assessment: Is Assisted Living Right for Your Family?

Before exploring specific signs, take a moment to honestly assess your current situation with these questions:

Daily Living & Safety:

• Has your loved one experienced falls or near-falls in the past six months?
• Are they struggling with personal hygiene or wearing the same clothes repeatedly?
• Do you notice significant weight loss or poor eating habits?
• Are medications being missed or taken incorrectly?

Cognitive & Social Well-being:

• Are they forgetting important appointments or repeating the same questions?
• Have they withdrawn from activities they once enjoyed?
• Do they seem lonely or isolated, especially in the evenings?
• Are they showing signs of confusion about familiar places or people?

Home Management:

• Is housekeeping, laundry, or home maintenance becoming overwhelming?
• Are bills going unpaid or financial management becoming confusing?
• Are there safety hazards in the home that aren’t being addressed?

Family Caregiver Stress:

• Are you feeling exhausted, stressed, or stretched thin as a caregiver?
• Is caregiving affecting your own health, work, or family relationships?
• Do you worry constantly about your loved one’s safety when you’re not there?

If you answered “yes” to several of these questions, it may be time to explore assisted living options. However, every situation is unique, and we’re always happy to discuss your specific circumstances.

Recognizing the Signs: When Support Makes a Difference

Changes in Physical Health

Mobility Concerns

When your loved one struggles to get up from chairs, has difficulty walking, or experiences frequent falls, these are important warning signs. Our community at NorBella Savage is designed with safety features like handrails, zero-step showers, and 24/7 assistance to help reduce these risks while maintaining dignity and independence.

Personal Care Challenges

Changes in personal hygiene – like neglecting showers, wearing the same clothes for days, or skipping oral care – often indicate that help with daily activities could make a significant difference. Our caring team provides gentle assistance with grooming and dressing while respecting each resident’s privacy and preferences.

Nutrition and Eating Habits 

Unintentional weight loss, forgetting to eat, or relying on quick, unhealthy snacks might suggest that your loved one could benefit from regular, nutritious meals. At NorBella Savage, our in-house chef prepares fresh, made-from-scratch meals designed to meet both nutritional requirements and personal preferences, with specialty diet options available.

Memory and Cognitive Changes

While memory lapses are common with aging, it may be time to explore care options when forgetfulness interferes with daily routines or poses safety risks.

Mild Cognitive Concerns 

Forgetting appointments, frequently misplacing items, or repeating questions can be signs that structured routines and gentle reminders would be helpful. Our intimate setting allows our team the gift of time for meaningful interactions that support cognitive well-being.

Advanced Memory Care Needs 

If your loved one is experiencing more significant symptoms like wandering, confusion, or difficulty recognizing familiar people, our specialized memory care neighborhood with 16 apartments offers a secure, caring environment where they can receive the focused attention they need to flourish.

Daily Life Management Difficulties

Household Tasks 

When cleaning, laundry, and home repairs become overwhelming, assisted living communities take these burdens off your loved one’s shoulders. Our residents enjoy maintenance-free living in beautifully designed apartments with 9-foot ceilings and large windows for natural light.

Financial Management

Stacked unpaid bills or confusing financial errors can be serious indicators that simplified living arrangements would reduce stress. Assisted living helps by consolidating costs and, when needed, providing assistance with daily expense management.

Medication Safety

Incorrect or missed medications pose serious health risks. Our professional medication management services ensure residents take the right medication in proper doses at correct times, providing peace of mind for families.

Social Isolation and Loneliness

Living alone can significantly impact mental and physical health, especially when your loved one withdraws from hobbies, skips family gatherings, or seems less engaged than usual.

At NorBella Savage, our community naturally encourages connection through shared meals, group activities like bingo nights and backyard barbecues, and simply having people around. Our residents form new and lasting friendships while enjoying scheduled outings and a variety of engaging programs.

Safety Concerns at Home

Older adults living alone face many potential hazards – from slippery floors and stairs to emergency situations where immediate help isn’t available. Our community is specifically designed for senior safety, with features like emergency call systems and staff available 24/7 for immediate assistance.

Family Caregiver Considerations

If you’re serving as a primary caregiver, recognizing your own limits is crucial for everyone’s well-being.

Recognizing Burnout 

Feeling stretched thin, stressed, or exhausted while juggling care duties with your own life isn’t weakness – it’s human. Moving a loved one to assisted living isn’t giving up; it’s shifting the care dynamic so dedicated professionals can handle day-to-day support needs while you focus on simply being a family member again.

Impact on Your Health 

Caregiver burnout can affect your own physical and mental well-being through sleep difficulties, weight changes, and increased illness. Our professional care approach allows your loved one to receive needed support while you regain much-needed balance. 

Making the Transition with Confidence

Recognizing these signs doesn’t make the decision less emotional, but feeling informed helps families make positive choices. At NorBella Savage, we understand that every situation is unique, and we’re committed to providing all the information you need to make a wise decision.

Our boutique setting means we can maintain open communication with families throughout the process. You’ll never feel out of the loop, and that provides invaluable peace of mind during this significant transition.

If several of the signs we’ve discussed resonate with your current situation, we invite you to learn more about life at NorBella Savage. Our caring team would love to show you how our intimate community creates an environment where daily life truly is sweet.

Ready to explore your options? Contact NorBella Senior Living at Savage today to schedule a tour and experience our warm, welcoming community firsthand. We’re here to support you through every step of this important decision.

Finding the right care community for a loved one goes beyond meeting their medical and health needs; it’s about verifying their emotional, social, and physical well-being are valued and looked after as well. 

Assisted living aims to promote independence while offering support, making it an ideal community for older adults who are relatively self-sufficient but require extra support with daily tasks. 

Prospective residents who meet assisted living’s age, health, and support requirements will thrive, offering the right balance a person may need to flourish. 

The goal of assisted living is to create a space where older adults can thrive while receiving the personalized care they need. 

What Are Residents in Assisted Living Like?

Residents in assisted living care have one commonality (among others); they benefit from a care environment that balances support while encouraging independence. 

Assisted living is a long-term community for relatively independent older adults who benefit from additional support with activities of daily living (ADLs). This might include help with personal grooming, medication management, maintaining a clean space, or preparing meals.

Residents are relatively mobile and self-sufficient, and although they benefit from daily support, they don’t require intensive medical care. 

Therefore, assisted living bridges the gap between independent living and full-on intensive care, making it an attractive long-term care option for potential residents and their families. 

With the proper tools and supportive resources, residents live active, fulfilling lives and participate in community activities such as exercise classes, book clubs, group outings, or even gardening sessions. 

Determining Eligibility for Assisted Living

The environment fostered in assisted living may not be suitable for everyone. Here are some factors that help determine whether this care option is the right fit for your loved one. 

Age Requirements 

Although designed for older adults, assisted living doesn’t generally have a strict age cut-off.

Most residents are 65 years or older, but those with specific health needs who are younger may also qualify. The key factor is whether our assisted living environment can meet their unique needs.

Our NorBella Senior Living community happily welcomes those who are ready to embrace a supportive environment that also helps preserve independence. 

Health Status

A person’s overall physical and mental health plays a huge role in determining their assisted living eligibility. 

Assisted living is ideal for older adults who are mostly independent but benefit from support with non-medical daily tasks like personal hygiene, meal preparation, mobility, and household chores. 

The living space itself can accommodate varying mobility levels, including those who require additional support with wheelchairs or walkers. However, older adults who are unable to leave their beds will benefit from greater comprehensive care and support.  

That’s not to say that people experiencing chronic health conditions like diabetes or arthritis aren’t eligible. 

We can support those who require minor chronic health management, such as medication management or transport to doctor’s appointments, as long as these health needs don’t require intensive medical care, such as ongoing IV therapy or continuous medical attention. 

People who require greater medical support may find skilled nursing care to be a better fit for their health needs.  

At the same time, assisted living can support people experiencing cognitive decline’s early stages. However, as the symptoms worsen and the condition progresses, residents will likely need to transition to memory care to verify their ongoing care requirements are properly managed and met. 

Support Needs 

The level of support your loved one requires is another key consideration. 

Assisted living caters to people who need a helping hand but still want to maintain their independence. Common support needs include:

• Daily living activities like bathing, dressing, or grooming.
• Medication management to confirm timely and accurate dosages.
• Managing mobility challenges, including the use of walkers or wheelchairs. 

If your loved one can no longer live safely at home but doesn’t require full-time medical care, assisted living could provide the ideal balance. 

Qualifying for Assisted Living

Once you’ve determined whether a loved one meets the basic requirements, the next step is undergoing evaluations and preparing for a smooth transition into assisted living. 

Physical Health Assessments 

Most assisted living communities require a physical health assessment to evaluate a potential resident’s current health status. This confirms that the level of care available is appropriate for their needs.

This assessment may include checking vital signs, mobility levels, and any chronic conditions that require monitoring. 

Having a clear picture of the resident’s health verifies our care team can build a personalized plan to enhance their day-to-day experience. Even current residents have ongoing health check-ins, so we can verify residents’ health needs are continuously met.  

Health Review 

To confirm that assisted living is the right fit, communities often review a prospective resident’s medical history. This includes prior diagnoses, procedures, and medications. 

A full review of a person’s health background and ongoing care needs helps create a safe and supportive environment. This documentation is vital for confirming specific care needs, such as dietary restrictions or monitoring for certain health conditions, are properly met within the community. 

Financial Considerations

There’s no set cost for assisted living, and these numbers can vary widely between communities. Before finalizing a move to assisted living, have a family discussion concerning the overall cost.

Most communities offer transparent pricing structures that outline service packages. Many of our residents use personal savings, insurance, and veterans’ benefits to cover the costs. Families may also wish to explore Medicaid support or federal assistance programs to help offset costs. 

Our NorBella Senior Living community is happy to guide you through these financial discussions to confirm you’re fully informed and help make the transition to our community as seamless as we can. 

Supporting the Transition to Assisted Living 

Exploring prospective assisted living communities is an important part of transitioning a loved one to assisted living that we can’t emphasize enough. 

Our NorBella Senior Living team can help support you during this journey. Connect with our team to schedule a tour of our assisted living community.

As we age, maintaining independence while ensuring safety and well-being becomes more challenging. For many seniors, assisted living provides the perfect solution — a supportive environment where residents can enjoy their privacy and autonomy while receiving the care they need. Whether for yourself or a loved one, understanding the benefits of assisted living is essential. Assisted living communities offer many benefits, including:

1. Independence
2. 24/7 support and security
3. Social activities
4. Chef-prepared meals
5. Medication management
6. Less stress for caregivers
7. Customizable living spaces
8. On-site amenities
9. Transportation services
10. Opportunities for learning and growth

10 Key Benefits of Assisted Living

1. The Perfect Blend of Independence & Assistance

Assisted living offers a unique balance of independence and support, allowing residents to live on their own terms while having access to care when needed. Whether it’s help with dressing, bathing, or medication management, the level of assistance is tailored to each individual’s needs. This flexibility ensures seniors maintain their autonomy while receiving the support necessary for their well-being.

2. Personalized Care for Every Resident

In assisted living, every resident’s needs are different, and care is tailored accordingly. Communities like NorBella Senior Living work closely with residents to create individualized care plans. These plans can be adjusted over time as health needs change, ensuring that seniors receive the right level of attention without feeling overwhelmed or over-treated. From help with daily tasks to specialized medical care, seniors can receive personalized care that addresses their unique situation.

3. Comprehensive Safety Measures

In addition to having staff on-site around the clock, many assisted living communities feature advanced safety systems like emergency response buttons, surveillance cameras, and secure entry points. This 24/7 supervision ensures that seniors have immediate access to help in case of an emergency, giving both residents and their families peace of mind.

Staff members are trained in first aid and CPR, and facilities are equipped with features like grab bars and non-slip flooring to reduce the risk of accidents.

4. Social Opportunities to Prevent Isolation

Loneliness and isolation can negatively affect the mental and physical health of seniors, leading to depression, anxiety, and even physical decline. Assisted living communities like NorBella Senior Living offer a range of social activities that help keep seniors engaged with others. Social events, group activities, and outings provide opportunities to meet new people, build friendships, and reduce feelings of loneliness.

5. Improved Lifestyle with Amenities & Services

Assisted living communities offer more than just care—they provide amenities that enhance the overall lifestyle of residents. From fitness and gardening to reading and socializing, these services help residents stay active, engaged, and connected. 

6. Medication Management 

As seniors age and take multiple medications, managing them can become more complicated. Assisted living communities provide medication management services to ensure prescriptions are taken correctly and on time, reducing the risk of errors. Assisted living communities also work closely with healthcare providers to ensure regular health assessments and timely care, keeping residents’ health needs well-managed and monitored.

7. Relieving the Burden on Family Caregivers

Caring for an aging loved one can be physically and emotionally demanding. Assisted living provides professional care, easing the burden on family caregivers and allowing them to focus on their own lives while staying involved in their loved one’s well-being. Regular communication with staff ensures families are always informed about their loved one’s condition and care plan, enabling them to make informed decisions.

8. Comfortable & Customizable Living Spaces

Transitioning to assisted living doesn’t mean giving up comfort. At NorBella Senior Living, residents can personalize their apartments with items like family photos and furniture, creating a home-like atmosphere. This helps ease the transition and ensures the space feels familiar and comfortable.

9. Access to Transportation & Outings

Many seniors may find it difficult to get out and about, whether it’s for medical appointments, grocery shopping, or social engagements. Assisted living communities often provide transportation services to ensure residents can still access the local community and participate in activities outside the facility. This allows residents to maintain their independence and enjoy outings with friends or family members.

10. Opportunities for Lifelong Learning & Personal Growth

Assisted living isn’t just about providing care; it’s also about promoting personal growth and development. Many communities offer programs that encourage lifelong learning, such as educational workshops, art classes, and guest speakers. These programs help keep seniors mentally engaged and promote a sense of purpose, which is essential for maintaining overall well-being.

Deciding on Assisted Living in Champlin

Assisted living provides the perfect balance of independence and support, ensuring seniors’ safety, health, and well-being. At NorBella Senior Living in Champlin, MN, we’re committed to helping seniors thrive in a welcoming and enriching environment—contact us today to learn more about how we can support your transition.

Crafting is more than just a fun pastime—it’s a powerful tool for enhancing the lives of older adults. Whether creating art for personal satisfaction or socializing with others, crafts bring joy and fulfillment to those living in assisted living communities. Here, we explore how crafting can become a meaningful and enjoyable part of life for seniors.

Craft activities in assisted living communities might include:

• Watercolor painting
• Knitting and crocheting
• Jewelry making
• Scrapbooking
• Clay sculpting and pottery
• Collage making
• Flower arranging

Why Crafting Matters for Older Adults

For seniors, crafting isn’t just about creating something beautiful; it’s a pathway to better well-being. Engaging in creative activities offers multiple benefits for older adults, particularly those living in assisted living communities. These benefits range from improving cognitive function to fostering emotional health and strengthening physical abilities.

Cognitive Health

Crafting can stimulate the brain, keeping it sharp and engaged. Activities like painting, knitting, or even simple puzzle crafting can improve memory and help maintain cognitive function, which is especially beneficial for seniors who may face memory challenges. The mental exercise required to follow patterns, complete designs, or remember previous steps can help maintain neural connections and cognitive clarity.

Physical Benefits

Many crafts require fine motor skills, which can help seniors maintain hand-eye coordination and dexterity. Activities such as beading, knitting, or clay molding are excellent for maintaining these skills, which play an essential role in everyday tasks like buttoning a shirt or writing.

Social Connection

Crafting in a group is an excellent way to meet new people, share stories, and combat feelings of isolation. Assisted living communities like NorBella offer opportunities to craft together, allowing seniors to bond over shared interests. This social interaction helps create a sense of community and belonging, which can be a powerful antidote to loneliness.

Emotional Fulfillment

There’s immense satisfaction in creating something by hand. Whether it’s a piece of art, a crocheted scarf, or a hand-painted card, crafting gives seniors a sense of accomplishment and pride. These small wins can greatly enhance self-esteem and emotional well-being.

Fun Craft Ideas for Seniors in Assisted Living

When choosing craft activities for seniors, it’s important to pick projects that are easy to adapt, enjoyable, and safe. Below are some craft ideas designed for seniors in assisted living that can be both fulfilling and fun.

1. Watercolor Painting

Watercolor painting is a low-pressure yet satisfying art form that allows seniors to express themselves creatively. With simple supplies like watercolor paints, brushes, and paper, seniors can experiment with colors and shapes, creating everything from serene landscapes to abstract designs. The fluid nature of watercolors is forgiving, making it a great option for anyone, regardless of artistic skill.

2. Knitting & Crocheting

Knitting and crocheting are timeless crafts that provide rhythmic relaxation and a sense of purpose. These activities can be easily adapted for various skill levels. Beginners can start with simple scarves, while more experienced crafters can try making blankets, hats, or even toys. Knitting circles or crocheting groups can be a fun way to connect with others while creating practical items.

3. Jewelry Making

Jewelry-making is another fun and accessible craft that allows seniors to create wearable art. With beads, wires, clasps, and cords, older adults can design necklaces, bracelets, and earrings. This craft is perfect for improving fine motor skills and creativity while offering a tangible result. Seniors can also use their jewelry creations as personal keepsakes or gifts for loved ones.

4. Scrapbooking or Memory Albums

Scrapbooking provides an opportunity to preserve cherished memories while engaging in a creative process. Seniors can gather photos, mementos, and decorative papers to create pages that reflect their life stories. This activity not only allows seniors to reminisce about their past, but it also fosters storytelling and emotional connection as they share their memories with family and friends.

5. Clay Sculpting or Pottery

Working with clay is a therapeutic and tactile experience. Air-dry clay or simple modeling clay can be used to create small sculptures, decorative objects, or even functional items like pots or bowls. Pottery classes are also a great group activity that fosters teamwork and allows participants to develop new skills in a relaxed, creative setting.

6. Collage Making

Creating collages is a simple yet effective way to express creativity. By cutting out images or designs from magazines or newspapers, seniors can assemble them into beautiful, personalized compositions. Collage-making is accessible to all skill levels and offers a fun way to explore different themes, from nature scenes to personal aspirations.

7. Flower Arranging

Flower arranging combines creativity with nature, offering a calming and visually satisfying activity. Seniors can arrange fresh or artificial flowers into beautiful bouquets or decorative displays. This craft encourages mindfulness and helps promote a sense of beauty and accomplishment as they enjoy the colorful, fragrant results.

Tips for Encouraging Craft Participation

In an assisted living community, crafting is most enjoyable when seniors are encouraged to engage at their own pace and comfort level. Here are a few ways to foster participation:

Create an Inviting Craft Space

Make sure there is a designated, well-lit space where crafting supplies are readily available and easy to access. A comfortable, quiet corner can help inspire creativity, while a collaborative space allows for group projects and socializing.

Be Patient and Adaptable

Not every senior will complete a craft at the same speed, and some may require assistance. It’s important to allow each participant to progress at their own pace and encourage their efforts, rather than focusing solely on the final result.

Celebrate Successes

When a craft project is completed, celebrate it! Display the creations around the community or share them with family members during visits. Recognizing their hard work and creativity boosts seniors’ self-esteem and encourages them to continue crafting.

Crafting at NorBella Senior Living

At NorBella Senior Living in Rogers, MN, our residents can enjoy a variety of creative activities that not only enhance their lives but also help them build lasting memories and connections with one another. Whether you’re knitting a cozy scarf, painting a picture, or making jewelry to share with loved ones, crafting is a meaningful way to engage both the mind and the spirit!

For more details about the vibrant lifestyle at NorBella Senior Living, reach out to us today to discover how we can support you or your loved one in living a fulfilling and connected life.

Engaging in thoughtful activities can be incredibly beneficial for seniors living with dementia. Not only do these activities provide mental stimulation, but they also help foster emotional connections, provide a sense of accomplishment, and encourage moments of joy. 

Such activities can strengthen bonds and create meaningful shared experiences for caregivers and families. 

Here, we explore several activities, such as memory boxes, gardening, art, music therapy, and more, designed to enrich the lives of seniors with dementia while promoting a sense of belonging and connection. 

Memory Boxes 

A memory box filled with familiar items from a senior’s past can inspire reminiscing and storytelling. This might include photographs, favorite trinkets, or objects tied to a beloved hobby or career. Handling these items helps stimulate memory recall, and sharing the stories behind them encourages interaction and connection between seniors and their families or caregivers. 

Gardening 

The simple act of planting seeds or tending to flowers can provide relaxing sensory experiences for seniors. Gardening allows them to engage with nature while also promoting physical activity. Even small indoor plants, like potted herbs, can bring a sense of accomplishment and joy. 

In addition, gardening can foster social interaction. Seniors may enjoy sharing their gardening experiences and knowledge with others, creating a sense of community.

Art Projects 

Painting, coloring, or crafting are therapeutic activities that allow seniors to express themselves. Art helps reduce stress, encourages creativity, and provides a wonderful outlet for emotions, which is especially important for those struggling with verbal communication. 

Music Therapy 

Music has an incredible ability to stir memories and emotions. Play music from the person’s favorite era, sing along to familiar tunes, or simply enjoy listening together. Research has shown that music can help reduce anxiety, improve mood, and even spark cognition in seniors with dementia. 

Simple Puzzles & Games 

Puzzles and games tailored to their level of cognition, such as large-piece puzzles or games like bingo, can engage their minds in a fun, stress-free way. Stimulating cognitive activity is essential, and games with clear instructions help eliminate confusion. 

Cooking or Baking 

Cooking and baking activities involve multiple senses, such as smelling, tasting, and touching, and are excellent for creating meaningful experiences. Simple recipes, such as baking cookies or preparing a fruit salad, can be both stimulating and nostalgic. 

Gentle Physical Exercise 

Encourage light, enjoyable exercise activities like stretching, chair yoga, or slow strolls. Physical movement is not only beneficial for physical health but also enhances mood and encourages better sleep. Dancing to music can also combine physical exercise with the joy of music! 

Sorting Activities 

Sorting activities, such as organizing buttons, coins, or colorful objects, can be calming for seniors with dementia. These tasks provide a sense of purpose and accomplishment while stimulating concentration and fine motor skills. 

Reading or Storytelling 

Reading books or poetry together can provide a peaceful bonding experience. If traditional reading isn’t an option, picture books or audiobooks are wonderful alternatives. Sharing real or imagined stories also fosters creativity and sparks positive emotions. 

Pet Therapy 

Spending time with a gentle pet or even stroking a plush therapy animal has been shown to reduce stress and promote feelings of happiness. Animals provide unconditional affection and can help seniors feel grounded and present in the moment. 

Why Structured Activities Matter 

Activities play a critical role in enhancing the quality of life for seniors with dementia, providing them with a sense of purpose, connection, and mental stimulation. Here’s how these activities make a difference.

Benefits of Engaging Activities for Seniors with Dementia:

• Sense of Purpose: Engaging in meaningful activities helps seniors feel valued and needed, while structured routines can bring stability and a sense of achievement.
• Reducing Anxiety: Familiar activities can soothe feelings of restlessness and agitation. Mindful practices, such as music or art therapy, can create a calming environment.
• Improving Communication: Activities encourage social interactions, promoting verbal and non-verbal communication, while shared experiences can strengthen bonds between seniors, caregivers, and family members.
• Creating Moments of Happiness: Participation in enjoyable activities fosters joy and laughter. Successful moments in activities can uplift mood and create positive memories.
• Tailored Experiences: Activities should be customized to align with individual abilities and interests, ensuring engagement
• Positive and Unpressured Environment: Activities should be enjoyable and relaxed, avoiding competition or pressure to perform. Encouragement and support from caregivers can enhance the experience.
• Fostering Strength, Belonging, and Purpose: Finding meaning and joy in simple activities, such as gardening, baking, or playing games, enriches daily life. Group activities can also foster a sense of community and belonging among residents.

At NorBella Senior Living, we are dedicated to creating opportunities for seniors and their families to share these meaningful experiences. We believe that by focusing on connection, happiness, and personal growth, we can help each resident thrive in their own unique way.

Discover Supported Dementia Care at Norbella 

We understand the unique challenges dementia can bring and are here to offer support every step of the way. At NorBella Senior Living at Champlin, our memory care programs focus on creating safe, engaging environments where seniors can thrive, and families can find peace of mind. 

If you’re looking for additional resources or personalized care options for a loved one with dementia, we’re here to help. Contact us today to learn more about our approach to supportive memory care. 

The right assisted living community can enhance your loved one’s quality of life by offering services, amenities, and events that suit their needs and interests.

When choosing an assisted living community, consider:

• Your loved one’s needs
• Comparing options
• Costs and finances

You should also involve your loved one throughout the process. Even after moving to the new community, you should continue to evaluate how your loved one feels.

Define Your Needs & Priorities

The first step is to understand your loved one’s specific needs. It’s important to outline what matters most before you start your search. Key considerations might include:

• Level of Care: Does your loved one require help with daily activities like mobility, bathing, dressing, or medication management? Or are they primarily looking for a safe and engaging environment with minimal assistance?
• Social Opportunities: Are there recreational activities, events, and programs to foster interaction and engagement?
• Proximity: Is the community close enough to loved ones for regular friends and family visits?
• Budget: What is the monthly budget for living expenses? Be sure to assess what’s included in the pricing—such as meals, housekeeping, and utilities.

By clearly defining priorities upfront, you’ll be in a better position to narrow down the list of potential communities.

Research & Compare Communities

Once you know what you’re looking for, it’s time to research and compare communities. Start by creating a shortlist of communities in your preferred area. Resources like senior living directories, online reviews, and referrals from friends and healthcare professionals are great places to start.

When evaluating each option, pay attention to these factors:

• Staff and Expertise: Look for communities with experienced and compassionate staff. Explore community websites and videos to get a sense of their community, and read reviews to see how current residents and families feel about the care they receive.
• Living Spaces: Examine and consider the size and layout of apartments or rooms. You should also consider how much natural light gets in, as natural light can improve mood and mental health.
• Dining Options: Good nutrition is critical, so it’s important to understand the dining services offered. Can dietary restrictions or preferences be accommodated? Do they offer fresh, nutritious, and delicious meals?
• Amenities and Activities: Many assisted living communities offer a variety of amenities and activities, from libraries and bingo nights to scheduled outings and barbecues. Check the community’s program schedule to see if activities align with your loved one’s interests.

Make note of how each community aligns with your list of priorities. This will help you evaluate your options.

Schedule Visits

There’s no substitute for visiting a community in person. Scheduling a tour allows you to experience the environment firsthand, interact with staff, and ask important questions.

When touring potential communities, consider the following:

• Cleanliness and Atmosphere: Does the community look clean, welcoming, and well-maintained? Are the residents and staff friendly and happy?
• Staff Interaction: Observe how staff interact with residents. Do they treat them with respect and patience? You can also consider the staff-to-resident ratio.
• Safety Measures: Look for safety features like emergency call systems, grab bars, and secure pathways indoors and outdoors.
• Engagement: Are residents actively participating in programs and social activities during your visit?

Don’t hesitate to bring a list of questions to ask during the tour. Some important questions include:

• What kind of training do staff members receive?
• How are medical needs managed on-site?
• Are there visiting rules? How flexible is the schedule for family visits?
• What is the process for handling emergencies?
• Can I try the meals during the visit?

Taking detailed notes and comparing different communities after visiting them will help clarify which one feels like the best fit.

Understand Costs and Contracts

Assisted living costs vary widely depending on location, services, and amenities. It’s essential to understand exactly what you’re paying for and what’s included.

Ask for a breakdown of fees, including:

• Monthly rent
• Meal plans
• Utilities
• Care services
• Additional fees (such as transportation or special dietary needs)

It’s also important to ask how pricing might change over time. Are rate increases decided on annually? 

Study the contract carefully before signing, and don’t hesitate to involve an attorney to review the document if necessary.

Engage Your Loved One in the Process

When choosing an assisted living community for a loved one, it’s vital to include them in the decision-making process as much as possible. After all, this will be their home, and their preferences should be taken into account. Encourage them to ask questions, share their impressions, and voice any concerns.

By making them an active participant, you help them feel more empowered and more confident about the transition.

Evaluate Continuously After Moving

The process doesn’t end once the decision has been made. It’s important to evaluate whether your loved one remains happy and well-cared for after moving in. Regularly visit the community and communicate with staff to monitor how your loved one is adjusting to their new lifestyle.

Your Path to the Right Choice

Choosing an assisted living community is a significant decision, but with the right approach, it can lead to a safe, nurturing, and joyful environment for yourself or your loved one.

Norbella Senior Living in Savage offers an assisted living lifestyle that focuses on the resident. Our team is here to help your loved one through personalized care, social programming, and various services and amenities. is here to help. Contact us today to schedule your tour and see how we can support you and your loved one.