Nursing Homes near Fort Myers, FL

Fort Myers was one of the first forts built during the American Indian Wars, and it was named after Colonel Abraham Myers. During the Seminole Wars, the fort was advantageous because of its strategic location, visibility, and access to the Atlantic waterways. After the wars, it became home to blockade runners and cattle ranchers, but over time, it attracted the likes of Thomas Edison and Henry Ford, both of whose winter homes are now a major tourist attraction in the region. The weather in Fort Myers is often hot, which can be troublesome to seniors if precautions aren't taken. The good news is that the winters are short and warm, so you don't have to worry about loved ones freezing. In fact, in 1898, Fort Myers became nationally recognized as the winter destination after the city built the Royal Palm Hotel. The city also has a planetarium and Imaginarium Science Center, as well as several theaters and museums.

Doing What's Best for Your Loved One

Despite your desire to care for a loved one, you have a life and responsibilities, as well. As they age, it will become harder for you to manage and cope with it all, especially if they are sick. As their guardian, you have to think of what's best for them, and if you can't commit to the level of care they need, then you must consider other options. Nursing homes can provide aging seniors a social, supportive environment with individuals in the same situation as themselves. It gives them a chance to live a higher quality of life than if they were simply stuck at home. Nursing homes provide activities, social outings, and events for seniors to keep them active and happy. Your loved one can have a comfortable life while staying at a nursing home, you just have to choose the one that fits them best. Considering their needs and preferences can make the search for the perfect nursing home difficult, but finding one that works gives everyone peace of mind.

Choosing the Right Facility

First, make a list of your non-negotiables. This may include things such as a secured facility, a varied menu that offers high quality food, options for day trips to theaters and museums, medical care, and so on. Next, narrow down the possibilities based on your list. If a facility doesn't meet your requirements, you can cross it off. Once you have a few places on your list, contact them for visits. Ask questions about the facility and the staff, and pay attention to the residents. You will get a vibe that lets you know whether you should stay or not. Don't be afraid to ask the hard questions, either. It's important to know what the nursing home's policies are, and whether you agree with them. Be sure to find out if the nursing home encourages and allows its residents the freedom to make certain decisions for themselves. One of the hardest parts of nursing home care for seniors is the fact that they lose their independence. Allowing them to make their own decisions, even small ones, gives them an opportunity to feel they are still in control of their lives, which can go a long way to smooth out the transition.

Loved ones moving to a nursing home may feel abandoned and unloved. It's important to pick a place close to family, and to visit as much as possible to help them transition to their new lifestyle. It won't take long, provided you've picked the right facility, because they will have a more active social life, and probably spend time enjoying things they'd never done before. Seniors living in Fort Myers may find themselves experiencing new adventures and visiting new places, even if they've lived in the city their whole lives.