Nursing Homes near Oceanside, CA

Nursing Homes in Oceanside, California

The topic of nursing homes is typically uncomfortable for families, and like most uncomfortable things, people tend to put it off. However, it's one of those things that really should be discussed sooner rather than later because there is a lot that goes into the decision. Not only do families have to choose a facility, but they also have to figure out what they want in the facility, and how to pay for care. Those aren't things you'll have time for if you wait until the last minute to talk about them. Once a senior's health starts to decline, you'll need to move quickly, so it's better to have everything decided beforehand.

Living in Oceanside

Oceanside is a coastal city in California, which means that one of the biggest attractions in the city is the ocean. The Oceanside Pier, which was originally built in 1888, and on its sixth incarnation, is one of the longest wooden piers in the western U.S. It comes in at 1,942 feet. There are also nature trails and gardens that offer meditative walking experiences, a surf museum, and it is home to the beach soccer championships. It is also home to several famous people, including Christopher Lloyd, Jason Mraz, and Mickey Finn. The outdoor meditative walks are great for people who enjoy spending time in nature, and nursing homes in the area sometimes use them as part of their therapy process.

Choosing the Right Facility

There is a lot to consider when it comes to choosing the right nursing home. You want something that complements your loved one's personality and preferences, so begin by asking your loved one what they want in a nursing home. Once you have an idea of what they'd like, start researching the facilities in the Oceanside area and make a list of potential new homes. With your list in hand, take your loved one on a tour of each facility and talk about which ones you both like and dislike. Speak with the program director, staff, and if possible, some of the residents of each nursing home to really see what living there would be like. Ask questions, even if you think they're uncomfortable questions. You're talking about entrusting a semi-defenseless loved one to people you don't know well. It's important that you ask questions, and feel comfortable with the answers. Once you do, you'll be able to narrow down your list to the one that's just right for your loved one.

Amenities and Activities

The amenities and activities available to residents of a nursing home are important. They keep the residents engaged in life by building a community for them. Seniors often come to think of the other residents as a second family. A good nursing home offers a wide selection of options including restaurant-style dining, social and recreational activities, landscaped grounds, beauty salon/barber shop, game room, wireless internet, library, laundry, and housekeeping. Nursing homes in Oceanside also have access to shopping areas, recreational centers, parks, museums, galleries, and beaches, to name a few. Some of the high-end amenity options available to you include spacious apartment, spa services, beauty salons and barbershops, and pet-friendly areas.

Making the Move

It's important to understand that moving into a nursing home is often difficult for seniors. Many of them have spent the better part of their adult life in one home, and the idea of moving into a much smaller apartment is overwhelming. It means they will have to downsize their belongings, but it also means they have to give up their home. It is at this stage that many seniors begin to drag their feet, but it's essential that family members are patient and helpful during this period. It also helps when family uses this time to reassure their loved one about the benefits of moving to the nursing home they selected. Once the senior gets through the moving part, everything else should be easier, but it's often difficult for seniors to let go, so family members should be prepared for that to come up.

Seniors have a lot to worry about as they get older, but a nursing home doesn't have to be one of them. Start by having the discussion early so that you have a plan when the time comes rather than simply reacting to the situation. Be sure to ask your loved one what they want in a nursing home, and make an effort to find a home that matches their personality and preferences. When you include your loved one in the process, not only do they feel valued and cared for, but it will also make the transition much easier for them.