Blog Layout

Discovering The Perfect Assisted Living Residence: A Comprehensive Guide For Caring Children

August 4, 2023

Discovering The Perfect Assisted Living Residence: A Comprehensive Guide For Caring Children

A nurse is helping an elderly man walk in a living room.

Embracing the next chapter of life can be exciting and overwhelming, especially when it comes to finding the ideal assisted living residence for your beloved parents. At The Retreat at Church Ranch, we understand the significance of this decision and the challenges it entails. That’s why we’ve crafted this beginner’s guide to help you navigate through the process with confidence and ease. By following these steps, you’ll gain the necessary insights to make an informed choice and find a community that meets your parent’s unique needs while ensuring their comfort, happiness, and overall well-being. So, let’s embark on this journey together and empower ourselves to make the best decision for our loved ones.

Understanding the Importance of Due Diligence

When it comes to finding the perfect assisted living residence, due diligence is paramount. Begin by engaging with the assisted living Administrator during your visits. Each Administrator possesses their own expertise and insights, providing a glimpse into the quality and dedication of the community. Observe their ability to identify your family member’s needs and how they propose to address them. These initial interactions will give you invaluable insights into the community’s approach to care.

Assessing Your Parent’s Unique Needs

To prepare for your due diligence, it’s essential to have a comprehensive understanding of your parent’s physical, psychological, social/emotional, and spiritual needs. Consider factors such as complex medication regimens or behavioral challenges like agitation, anger, or depression. It’s these intricate issues that the chosen facility must have proven expertise in handling. By having a clear picture of your parent’s requirements, you can better evaluate and compare the offerings of each assisted living community you visit.

Steps to an Informed Decision

Step 1: Explore Nearby Assisted Living Communities


Set your mind to visit as many assisted living communities close to your location as possible. The more you explore, the better equipped you’ll be to make a well-informed choice. Remember, knowledge is power.


Step 2: Create a Written Description of Needs


Before each visit, draft a written description of your parent’s needs. Follow this script during your tours to help you better understand and compare the information you receive. This consistent approach will allow you to focus on the core aspects of care and identify the communities that align with your parent’s requirements.


Step 3: Take Detailed Notes


During each tour, take meticulous notes. Observe how well the tour guide listens and genuinely cares about your parent’s well-being. Are they focused on addressing your loved one’s needs or merely showcasing the aesthetics of the community? Additionally, evaluate the stability and maturity of the staff, as turnover in key positions can impact the quality of care provided.

Keeping the End Goal in Sight

Amidst the multitude of considerations, it’s crucial to keep your eyes fixed on the ultimate goal: finding a community that can best cater to your parent’s care needs at a cost that aligns with your situation. With a clear understanding of your parent’s requirements and thorough research, you can confidently make decisions that prioritize their well-being.

The Power of Research and Follow-Up

Don’t rush into hasty or uninformed decisions. Conduct thorough research by checking community reviews, complaints, and public surveys. These resources provide valuable insights into the experiences of residents and families. Additionally, follow up with the assisted living community after your visits. By maintaining open communication, you can address any lingering questions or concerns.


Navigating the process of finding an assisted living residence for your parents may seem daunting, but with the right approach, it can become a rewarding and empowering journey. At The Retreat at Church Ranch, we understand the challenges you face and the importance of making an informed decision. Our team of dedicated professionals is here to support you every step of the way. With our exceptional care, comfortable living spaces, and enriching community, we provide the ideal environment for your loved ones to thrive.


Get in touch with us today!


To learn more about the services we offer, please click here. To get in touch with us, please click here or give us a call at (303) 469-7178.

Read More

Time to Focus on Improving Communication

March 10, 2025
None of us can skip communication in our daily lives. Whether at work or at home, we talk with others in the hope of getting our needs met and sharing a connection. Some people are natural and open communicators while others need some help along the way. Here are some suggestions to ease the way and help everyone get along a little bit better. Assume Positive Intentions – when talking with family, friends or coworkers, try to avoid becoming immediately defensive. Believe the other party is working to improve the situation and striving for a positive outcome. Although it can be hard, try to be receptive to the idea someone is trying to convey even if they don’t go about it in the best way. Be Clear and Concise – take a moment to prepare your thoughts before speaking or responding. For clarity, limit yourself to dealing with one individual topic at a time. Also, using too many words or fancy language can distract from your intended message and the listener may stop listening. Use Active Listening Skills - which means you listen to understand what is being said and not in order to respond. Paraphrase back to the speaker what you thought they said to make sure you understand before you form your response. Ask open ended questions, not yes or no questions. Watch Nonverbal Communication – these include facial expression, gestures and tone of voice. Be aware of the message you’re sending, such as crossed arms which convey defensiveness or lack of openness. Don’t look at your watch or phone which conveys impatience or the desire to be elsewhere. Use a calm reassuring tone of voice, even when emotions are running high. Email and Texts are Tricky: Use Caution – as these have no tone of voice, they are easier to misconstrue. Whenever possible speak to someone in person or by phone. Written messages are one of the most important times to assume the best intentions of the other party.

Staying Healthy This Winter - Tips to Follow

February 26, 2025
Getting sick is never fun and when the weather is cold and dreary, getting sick seems to feel even worse. We all know the general rules to follow to stay healthy and stop the spread of illness, but it never hurts to see a few reminders. 1) Cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze. If you don’t have a tissue, cough or sneeze into your upper sleeve or elbow. Wash your hands regularly using soap and warm water and scrub for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water isn’t available, use alcohol-based hand sanitizer. 2) Make sure you stay hydrated. Drinking enough water each day boosts your immune system and helps fight viruses. Studies show any hydration is better than none, so if you don’t like water, drink something you do like such as coffee, tea or juice. 3) Up your Vitamin D intake - low levels can make you susceptible to illnesses and negatively affect your mental health. Sunshine is one free source of Vitamin D. You can also find it in butter, milk, cheese, yogurt, egg yolks, some mushrooms, fatty fish and canned tuna. 4) One of your immune system's first lines of defense is your SKIN. Avoid cracked skin to keep germs, bacteria and viruses out by applying cream or lotion. Limit overly hot showers as they dry out skin. Make sure to apply moisturizer afterwards. Also, don’t forget to apply lip balm. 5) Stay up to date on recommended immunizations like flu, COVID-19, RSV and pneumonia. 6) Continue to eat a healthy diet. Eat plenty of vegetables, fruits, whole grains, nuts and seeds. Including garlic, ginger, and additional citrus fruits may also boost your immune system. 7) If you get sick - SLEEP. During sleep, important immune processes happen to help your body heal and recover. That’s when proteins that target infection are released and your body has a better fever response.
Two older women are sitting in chairs in a living room talking to each other.

Happy New Year – Means Happy New Habits

January 23, 2025
Happy New Year – Means Happy New Habits
Share by: