They are living in NC but are in poor shape. They want to move to the Clearwater FL area, preferably in a rental or maybe a condo/apt available to buy. But I'm wondering if given their age and condition, looking into an ALF might be better. I have no idea where to start (except here!). Looking for zip code 33765 (Clearwater) or very close. I don't want anything "slummy" but can't afford "millionaire" locations either. Worried about bad places and horror stories I've heard about. Thank you for any advice.
How far is the place they want to move to from you?
You may want to look into what is called "Independent Living" apartments which are in senior living facilities. My Dad had a really nice 2 bedroom apartment, large living room and full size kitchen. Cost was $5k per month [prices vary per area] at the time which included weekly housekeeping, weekly linen service, and one meal in the main restaurant styled dining room which had menu service. Dad had an "option" of 3 meals in the dining room.
Plus the facility included "Assisted Living" studio apartments and "Assisted Living/Memory Care" studio apartments, for when that time comes if one needs a higher level of assistance.
The facility is called Sunrise Senior Living, and I checked and the closest one is in Tampa. But anyway, you can look around to see if there are places similar. The place Dad was in was built like a Victorian hotel, and the place was set up like a hotel.
You will need to tour the facilities, and let the Staff recommend what type of living style would work best for your parents. Set the tour around lunch time, as some places will offer you a free lunch to give you an idea about the food served.
If the workers appear to be happy and greet you on your tour, then you know the Staff is comfortable working there.
Oh, smoking was only allowed on a designated porch. Smoking was not allowed in the building at all.
california is pretty much smoke free but nursing homes here allow smoking. Can’t say I agree with that myself.