When it comes to aging services, there can be more questions than answers. That's why AAHSA wants to give you access to the experts: our members.
This page features members' answers to questions we've received from consumers about finding the right aging services for themselves or their loved ones. Have a question to ask? Send it to AAHSA's
Sarah Mashburn.
What steps should I take to prepare for moving to a retirement community?
Scott Wynn, chief operating officer of Beatitudes Campus in Phoenix, Ariz., discusses the steps necessary to prepare for moving into a retirement community. Wynn emphasizes the need for financial planning as well as the need for visiting prospective communities and meeting with both the staff and the residents.
How can I help a loved one transition from the hospital to a nursing facility?
Patricia Vincent, chief executive officer of Three Links Care Center, Northfield, Minn., suggests family members research facilities in their area so their loved one receives the best possible care. It's also important, says Vincent, that family members establish a positive, open channels of communication with the facility's staff.
How do I talk to a parent about moving from their home to a long-term care facility?
Peggy Mullan, president and CEO of Beatitudes Campus in Phoenix, Ariz., says that when helping her own mother transition to a long-term care facility, it was important to help her mother differentiate between her wants and her needs. Mullan notes the importance of starting discussions early enough to give a parent or loved one enough time to really think things through. A crisis should never drive decisions.
What are the top-five signs of a quality provider?
Danny Sanford, CEO of Still Hopes Episcopal Retirement Community in West Columbia, S.C., offers his take on the top-five signs of a quality provider. Sanford says it's important for consumers to look for innovations such as home and community-based services (HCBS), technology, or PACE programing. It's also important to make sure the facility is accredited.
Jim Mayer, executive director of Berkeley Square, a Colonial Community in Hamilton, Ohio, says that for a continuing care retirement community (CCRC), a facility should offer older adults the fun of living in a community full of active friends, wellness activities, and social programs yet the peace of mind of knowing that health services are available if they should need them. Click here to read his top-five signs of a quality provider.
Jim Mayer: Top-Five Signs of a Quality Provider 
What kind of services can affordable senior housing offer my elderly loved one?
Peter Szutu, president and CEO of the Center For Elders Independence (CEI) in Oakland, Calif., says that while affordable senior housing typically does not offer a lot of services, most facilities have a senior-service coordinator that help connect seniors to a variety of programs, such as day centers.
Laverne Joseph, president & CEO of Retirement Housing Foundation, says affordable housing communities provide residents with safety and security. In addition, the affordable housing communities often provide a place to meet new friends.
What's the difference between assisted living care and nursing home care?
Pamela Rezac, president and CEO of Avera Sacred Heart in Yankton, S.D., discusses the difference between nursing home care and assisted living care. Rezac says the primary difference has to do with the level of independence of the individual. In assisted living, individuals need minimal help with normal daily activities.
What is the most important piece of advice for a family caregiver?
Bonnie Gauthier, CEO of Hebrew Healthcare in West Hartford, Conn., says the most important piece of advice for a caregiver is to not try and do everything on their own. According to Gauthier, one of the most common mistakes of caregivers is not asking for help. Many caregivers assume that as the care burden becomes greater, it's incumbent for them to meet the new demands.
