Nursing homes get a bad rap in popular culture.
On the popular 1980s and early '90s sitcom "The Golden Girls," Dorothy frequently threatened to return her mother to the Shady Pines retirement home.
Adam Sandler's character in "Billy Madison" took up golf to save his grandmother from a home run by a sadistic orderly played by Ben Stiller.
These portrayals could not be further from the truth.
In reality, nursing homes and assisted living facilities are wonderful communities for older adults who need varying levels of assistance with their day-to-day activities.
When selecting a home, assess your physical and mental needs and visit a number of facilities to find a place you feel comfortable calling home.
Once you have determined that you need some help completing everyday tasks, you should take stock of your physical and mental capabilities to determine the level of services you need.
Assisted living facilities provide a variety of service levels to their residents, and are a good option for adults who need help preparing meals, keeping house, or taking their medications.
When you decide what level of care you require, look for assisted living facilities in your area that will suit your needs.
Adults now have more options than ever in selecting a place that will meet their long-term needs.
For many aging adults, communities with private apartments that are serviced by the facility staff are a good option.
The apartments are usually ground-floor units, and have lower toilet seats, guardrails, and seated showers.
These features allow adults to maintain their independence for as long as possible.
They also include 24-hour security, on-call medical staff, regular visits from housekeeping services, and transportation.
A good facility can tailor a care program that meets your needs.
After identifying suitable assisted living facilities, start scheduling appointments for a visit.
While visiting, ask questions that will help you determine whether you can see yourself living there.
Be sure to ask about how frequently housekeeping and laundry services are provided.
Check to make sure that the maintenance staff does not cut corners while cleaning.
It is also a good idea to plan your visit during an activity.
Notice whether the residents attend the activities, and pay particular attention to the way the staff interacts with the residents.
You should also ask about the variety of activities offered, and opportunities for outings.
Make sure you have an opportunity to eat a meal at the site.
You can determine whether you like the food served, as well as chat with other residents about their experiences.
Finally, you should ask about security and safety, including staffing schedules, and how residents may report emergencies.
Do not be afraid of offending the staff member who gives you a tour; there are no wrong questions to ask when you are selecting a place you will call home.
Selecting an assisted living facility for your long-term care is an important decision.
Make sure you properly research all your options, and visit each site before making the decision.