Help getting better care

Several years ago, my mother and aunts helped my grandmother find a fun place for her to live. Very healthy and in her 80s, she wanted to be in a place that would accommodate her future needs. Let's face it, as we get older, our bodies don't always cooperate for us as well as they do when we're kids. I'm in my mid-30s and already figuring that out.

Sometimes, it's easier to find assisted living when you don't actually need it. It's important that families play an active role in finding the right place for aging members. They can really help understand the ins and outs ofcare homes. Finding the perfect community for your older family members can be like finding the best college for your children. Often, the social aspect is as important a factor in how well your family will be treated.

My grandmother has quite an active lifestyle for a woman nearly 90. She's not driving any more and doesn't make her world-famous pound cake often (ok, it's not really world famous, but in my family, she makes the best around). But, none of those life changes stop her from getting involved and being an active member of her community. Last time I visited her, she went door knocking to find the inconsiderate visitor who illegally parked in the way of the community bus. As the president of her building association, she didn't want to let that one slip by un-noticed.

Even though it will be many, many years before my sister and I have to walk this road with our parents, I'm thankful to know that there are people out there who will help us find the perfect place for them.