Choosing a Residential Care Community

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One of life's greatest challenges is deciding when a loved one is no longer capable of living independently. Often, a time of crisis precipitates this decision, such as when the individual is ready to leave the hospital after a serious illness, or when events make it clear that severe limitations exist.

Any placement in a rest home must be done with the consent of the individual or his or her legal agent (Health Care Proxy and/or Power of Attorney). Since a residential care community will become the individual making process if he/she has cognitive capacity. Before the situation becomes an emergency, it is important to discuss the decision thoroughly with the individual.

A good starting place for the family and the individual in need is to discuss the options available for best meeting their needs. A hospital social worker, physician or representative of the Massachusetts Executive Office of Elder Affairs may be helpful. Always she has the right to be involved in this consequential decision.