The Woodlands at Hillcrest welcomes and encourages the active participation of adult children (or other loved ones) in the process of choosing a senior living community, and throughout the life of the resident in the community. We suggest that you begin by reviewing these Frequently Asked Questions and the glossary of terms. Certainly, it’s helpful to review the various literature that’s available, but the best measure of a senior living community is to visit—to talk with the staff and experience the environment. We invite you to call for a personal tour or for additional information.
Retirement Community FAQ’s
For quick answers, consult our FAQs.
What is Assisted Living?
Assisted living is designed for senior adults who require some help with the activities of daily living to maintain their optimal level of independence. It’s an ideal option when skilled care isn’t required – such as a nursing home – but a bit of help is needed for functions such as bathing, dressing, grooming, taking medication, mobility and the like.
What is Memory Care?
Memory Care is a specialized environment, designed for helping those who struggle with Alzheimer’s disease or related dementias. Activities and programs help maximize remaining cognitive abilities, reduce anxiety and confusion, and increase peace of mind.
How will I know it’s time for my loved one to move into an assisted living community?
That’s a great question. You’ve probably had the opportunity to see your parent or other loved one over a period of years. The aging process includes a natural slowing down, and you may see that certain day-to- day functions – such as bathing, dressing, grooming, eating, and remembering to take medications – have become a challenge. At that point, you’ll find yourself questioning how viable it is for that person to live on his or her own, out of concern for their safety and well-being.
How can I help in the transition?
There are topics of conversation that can help you as you start a dialog that leads in that direction when the opportunities arise. Questions such as – Is your home still appropriate for your needs? Do you need help with household chores? Are you able to cook your favorite meals? Are you comfortable driving? Would you enjoy having transportation available at your door? Are you taking your medications correctly? These and similar questions can pave the way to consideration of a new – and better – lifestyle.
What’s the best way to get started in selecting a senior living community?
Many people will begin the process of seeking an appropriate retirement community by touring the community and talking with staff on behalf of their aging loved one. Then, having made the initial inquiries, they will draw their parent into the conversation.
Are pets allowed at The Woodlands?
Yes! Please ask about our pet policy and restrictions, as well as our pet care packages.
Can residents bring their own furniture?
Absolutely. Residents are welcome and encouraged to bring their own furniture, art, photos, etc., and to make their residence their home.
These questions are interesting, but don’t cover my specific question or concern. Any general advice?
Yes. Please think of us at The Woodlands as a resource. Give us a call. We will likely have excellent guidance, or have a pretty good idea on where to direct you to get your questions answered. In the meantime, this Family Resource section includes the leading online organizations and resources.
GLOSSARY OF SENIOR LIVING TERMS
Assisting your parents or loved ones as they explore retirement community options often requires a little translation. You’ll notice some terms pop up frequently. Hopefully this brief glossary will help you differentiate plans, services, and senior living options.
- Age-restricted
Most retirement communities require that residents have reached a given age before moving in. You’ll find 65+ is a common benchmark. - Assisted Living
Assisted living communities typically provide services which allow the resident to maintain a degree of independence, while offering a helping hand with given tasks such as bathing, grooming, dressing, and taking medications. - Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC)
CCRCs are senior living communities that provide a continuum of lifestyle options and choices, generally including independent living, assisted living, memory care, and skilled nursing residences or suites. These communities usually offer long-term contracts or written agreements, and a continuum of housing services and health care. - Independent Living
In an independent living community, residents are capable of living in a residence with or without assistance. - Life Care
Life Care is a term often used to distinguish communities that offer lifestyles and care—for life, with virtually no additional increase to monthly fees, whether a resident is in a residence or a residential health services program including assisted living, memory care or skilled nursing. By contrast, some CCRCs provide continuing care with a fee-for- service contract, requiring additional fees for living at higher levels of care. - Long-term Care Insurance
Long-term care insurance is a type of insurance developed specifically to cover the cost of skilled nursing, assisted living, home health care and other long-term care services. These services are usually not covered by traditional health insurance or Medicare. - Medicare
The federal health insurance program called Medicare is designed for people who are 65 and older, certain younger people with disabilities, and people with End-Stage Renal Disease. Medicare Parts A, B, C and D cover specific services and care.
- Medicaid
Financed by state and federal governments, Medicaid is the program of medical assistance designed for those unable to afford regular medical service—available to fund care in a skilled nursing setting. - Memory Care
A specialized type of elder care, memory care is tailored specifically for the needs of individuals with Alzheimer’s, dementia, or other cognitive disorders. - Nursing Home (or Health Center)
Skilled nursing care facilities, commonly referred to as nursing homes or health centers, are licensed health care communities that are inspected and regulated by a state’s Department of Health Services. They offer long- and short-term care for individuals who need rehabilitation services or who suffer from serious or persistent health issues that are often too complicated to be tended to at home. - Rehabilitation Services
Services designed to help an individual recover from an injury, operation, stroke, or illness. These may include physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy and memory care. In most cases, services are planned to help the patient return as closely as possible to pre-challenge levels. The services may be residential (inpatient), or outpatient, and may be short- or long-term, depending on the needs of the patient. - Retirement Community
The term “retirement community” encompasses a wide scope of variations—several of which are covered here. Rental communities, continuing care, Life Care, assisted living and skilled nursing care communities all fall within the spectrum, as do age-restricted communities of individually owned homes with common services and amenities. - Skilled Nursing Care
Skilled nursing care communities offer daily nursing care, provided or supervised by licensed medical personnel.
LINKS TO RESOURCES
Many organizations dedicated to seniors and senior care offer useful information and details on their websites. We’ve assembled a collection of links so you’re just a click away from helpful resources.
AARP
AARP is a membership organization leading positive social change and delivering value to people age 50 and over through information, advocacy and service.
Administration on Aging
Administration on Aging provides home and community-based services to millions of older persons through the programs funded under the Older Americans Act.
Alzheimer's Association
Alzheimer’s Association is the leading voluntary health organization in Alzheimer’s care, support and research.
Arthritis Foundation
Arthritis Foundation provides members with specialist referrals, Arthritis Today magazine and updates on the newest research.
Caregiver.com
Caregiver.com offers support and guidance for family and professional caregivers through newsletters, online discussion, Today’s Caregiver magazine, chat rooms and more.
Caring Connections
Caring Connections is a national consumer and community engagement initiative to improve care at the end of life, supported by a grant from The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation.
LeadingAge
LeadingAge is focused on advocacy of effective services for seniors including home health, hospice, assisted living, continuing care and more.
Elder Law Answers
Elder Law Answers supports seniors, their families and their attorneys in legal issues surrounding aging.
Family Caregiver Alliance
Family Caregiver Alliance addresses the needs of families and friends providing long-term care at home.
GovBenefits.gov
GovBenefits.gov is the official benefits site of the US Government with information on over 1,000 benefit and assistance programs.
Hospice Foundation of America
Hospice Foundation of America exists to help those who cope personally or professionally with terminal illness, death, and the process of grief and bereavement.
International Council on Aging
International Council on Aging unifies organizations focused on older adults and provides education, information, resources, and tools.
National Council on Aging
National Council on Aging is a nonprofit organization with a national network of more than 14,000 organizations and leaders.
Blogs
Top 10 Caregiver Apps in 2018
Family caregivers need all the help they can get. From organization and communication tools to medical tracking and specialized help for Alzheimer’s caregivers, these 10 apps just might make things easier for you in 2018.
How to Prepare to be a Caregiver
Many families are caught off guard when an aging parent suddenly gets ill, is seriously injured in a fall, has a heart attack or stroke, or is diagnosed with dementia or Alzheimer’s disease. A recent survey found that while two-thirds of caregivers end up being women, 54% of American women feel ill-prepared to take care of their aging parents.
5 Must-Haves In Memory Care Communities
Finding a memory care community that fits your loved one’s needs and make them feel comfortable just got a lot easier!
4 Ways to Handle Hearing Loss
Do you find yourself asking people to repeat themselves? Are your grandchildren mumbling and slurring their words more than usual? You may be experiencing some hearing loss signs and symptoms.
