At Bayshire Riverwalk, we recognize that choosing senior living in Bakersfield, CA, is a step toward a better quality of life. An older adult chooses professional support over home care assistance, seeing it as a better fit for their needs. A close-knit, connected community full of enriching activities promises a new lifestyle and sense of community. But how does one actually find a reliable senior living option? It starts with a thorough process that first determines care needs, then leverages local resources to decide which community is best. Here’s a brief guide to finding a trusted senior living community in Bakersfield for a senior or loved one.
Determine Your Level of Care
Begin by evaluating what level of care you need. If you are comfortable living independently, independent living would be a good fit. But if you need assistance with daily living activities (ADLs) or dealing with memory conditions, a higher level of care may be needed. Independent living would be best for seniors who want a maintenance-free lifestyle while still having access to essential conveniences such as housekeeping, dining, and transportation. Assisted living would be ideal for seniors who need help with daily activities like bathing, dressing, and medication management. Seniors with Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia would need a memory care community. And those with rehabilitation needs or chronic health conditions would need skilled nursing.
Compare Average Costs In Bakersfield
Bakersfield is generally considered more affordable than both the California state and the U.S. averages. But that doesn’t mean you can go with any option you find online. As you conduct an online search, you may come across options that look similar in their offerings. As a careful decision-maker, you need to find an option that offers the best value for the price. Therefore, check what senior living options charge per care type to compare costs. Keep in mind that average independent living costs are $3,762 per month, $3,397 for assisted living, and $4,147 per month for memory care.
Evaluate And Tour In-Person
Even if a community offers virtual tours, you should take an in-person tour. This will allow you to assess the community firsthand rather than relying on the brochure details. As you tour, evaluate key aspects of the community. Check proximity to family, hospitals, and local attractions. Taste the food and review the community's monthly activities calendar to ensure it matches your lifestyle. Ask the community about the staff-to-resident ratio and night-shift ratios to ensure you always receive adequate support. Search the California Department of Social Services facility database to verify the community’s licensing history and check for past citations.
Use Local Placement Services
There are various free, personalized assistance programs available that can help narrow the search and choose the best assisted living option. Locate a local senior placement agency that can help you find a reliable assisted living option based on your budget and healthcare needs. Working with a senior living advisor is another practical way to find suitable senior living options.
Bayshire Riverwalk - An Exceptional Senior Living Community
At Bayshire Riverwalk, we understand that choosing a senior living community means finding an option that balances support and personalized assistance. The information above outlines how a family or a senior can find a suitable senior living community in Bakersfield. Those seeking a homelike senior living option can contact us at Bayshire Riverwalk.
As a continuing care retirement community (CCRC), we provide a continuum of care, ensuring seniors age in place. We strive to be their forever home, where they enjoy community living and access specialized daily living support. With our compassionate team of caregivers and a wide range of amenities, we support aging with dignity for all residents.