With every stage of life comes a lot of new changes – and retirement is no exception. While retirement can be a time of freedom and relaxation, when medical issues make independent living difficult, residents may need to make the decision with their family to move to continuing care. Here are a few common questions residents and their families have when the time comes to transition from independent living to continuing care.

 1. What kind of conditions usually cause someone to move to continuing care? 

This typically happens when a resident is no longer safe living in their independent living patio home. Reasons for this could be frequent falling, forgetting to take medications, or a progressive neurological disease, to name a few.

2. Does someone at Sherwood Oaks discuss residents’ options when it comes to moving from independent living?

Our medical staff, in conjunction with the resident and resident’s family, are involved in the decision about when/if the resident needs to move to a higher level of care.

3. How does the process go when one spouse is ready for continuing care and one is not? 

In this situation, the spouse not in need of continuing care remains in the patio home, while and the spouse needing more care moves to the next level.  By being in a CCRC (Continuing Care Retirement Community) they can see each other every day without worrying about finding transportation.  They can have their meals together and attend activities together.

4. Is the resident’s family involved in the process?

Yes, they are involved in any decision dealing with a resident’s continuing care.

5. Does a doctor need to state that someone needs to be moved to continuing care? 

Yes, our medical staff will do a functional assessment in order to see what the resident’s capabilities are and if they need a higher level of care.

6. How does a daily routine change when someone is moved to continuing care? 

They have assistance from RN’s, LPN’s and Nurse Assistants for whatever needs they have, 24/7.  The staff also takes over ordering, storing and administering their medications.  They may need help bathing, scheduling and getting to doctors appointment, all which Sherwood Oaks will do.  They are provided three meals per day and daily activities including occasional off-campus outings.

7. What if a resident doesn’t want to be moved to continuing care? 

They can appeal the recommendation to our CEO. 

The decision to switch from independent living to continuing care is an important one that needs to be discussed with residents, family members, staff members, and health professionals. Talk to your healthcare provider at Sherwood Oaks to discuss your options for continuing care.