“Senior Living 101”"

🎙️ Solving Life’s Next Chapter: Senior Living 101 with Shea and Leslie, experts in the Senior industry as between them, they have 55+ years of experience in the senior industry

When it comes to helping a loved one transition into senior living, most families have the same reaction — where do we even begin?

On this week’s episode of Solving Life’s Next Chapter, host Lydia Wietsma, Certified Probate & Senior REALTOR® and owner of NextHome Power Realty, sat down with Shae Rambow and Leslie A. Davis, trusted senior-living professionals, to unpack the most common questions families face when exploring senior housing options. Together, they shared compassionate insight, practical advice, and a clear path to making confident decisions.

Understanding Senior-Living Options

Shea began by explaining that “senior living” isn’t one-size-fits-all. Families can choose from:

• Independent Living – Ideal for active seniors who want freedom with added community amenities.
• Assisted Living – Provides daily support with meals, medication, and personal care while encouraging independence.
• Continuing Care Communities – Offer multiple levels of care in one location, allowing residents to age in place.

They emphasized that understanding these distinctions early helps families focus on what their loved one truly needs rather than what feels urgent in the moment.

Knowing When It’s Time to Consider a Move

One of the toughest parts of the senior-living journey is recognizing the signs that a move might be needed. Shea and Leslie shared that indicators often include isolation, poor nutrition, medication mismanagement, or safety hazards at home.

They encouraged families to start the conversation early—not during a crisis. “The earlier you talk about it,” Leslie said, “the more control your loved one has in choosing where and how they want to live.”

We also discussed the emotional side of these decisions. Guilt and hesitation are normal, but professionals can guide families through those feelings with compassion and facts.

Touring Communities and Asking the Right Questions

Once families decide to explore options, Shea and Leslie recommends visiting multiple communities and coming prepared with questions about staffing, activities, dining, and medical support.
They reminded listeners that finding the right fit is about more than cost—it’s about quality of life. Tasting the food is very important so make sure to take time to have a meal whether that's a lunch or a dinner.  

During the conversation, Lydia noted how often her real-estate clients feel relief once they realize there are professionals who specialize in this process, from finding the right community to coordinating the home sale.

Financial Planning and Available Resources

Another major concern for families is how to pay for care. Shea highlighted resources such as:

• VA Aid & Attendance benefits for eligible veterans and surviving spouses.
• Bridge loans or home-equity options to fund the transition.
• Working with a SRES, Certified (Senior Real Estate Specialist) REALTOR® familiar with downsizing and estate sales.

By planning

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