How Much Freedom Do Texas Seniors Have in Continuum of Care Communities?

Will I be told what to do in a senior living community?

If you made a plan and decided aging in place is how you want to live your life after retirement, congratulations. Planning for the future is the best investment you can make, and Texas has some of the best protections for seniors’ rights in the country. If you are considering senior living, understanding your rights will help you maximize the continuum of care you’re expecting.

What does life look like in an age-in-place community?

Wesley Court, an ER Senior Management community in Abilene, TX, offers independent living options in a 70-acre gated community featuring:

Executive Homes & Garden Homes	Luxury one and two-bedroom options Two-car garage Full kitchen with stainless steel appliances Patio All utilities, including basic cable, TV, and Internet Housekeeping, landscaping, and maintenance
Apartments	One and two-bedroom apartments with large kitchens Housekeeping and maintenance All utilities, including basic cable, TV, and Internet
Amenities	Friendly concierge service On-site full-service bank Beauty salon/barbershop Transportation service Library Restaurant-style dining
Activities	Outdoor walking trails Wellness center Chapel services Live entertainment
Care Services	Assisted Living Skilled Nursing Rehabilitation Respite

Am I allowed to leave senior living communities?

Yes, absolutely. Your new home or apartment just happens to be in a community set up to make your life more convenient. You are free to use our transportation services or make arrangements of your own to go out and enjoy your life.

You are also free to show off your new home to friends and family. Utilize the catering services and private dining rooms offered at ER Senior Management communities. Imagine exploring Amarillo, TX when you live at The Craig:

• Amarillo Museum of Art
• Amarillo Botanical Gardens
• Route 66 Historic District
• Palo Duro Canyon

Are there laws protecting seniors’ rights?

In 1987, The Nursing Home Reform Law (applicable to assisted living and continuum of care communities) required communities to provide care for their residents in a way that promotes and enhances the quality of life for all residents. By law, your residence must ensure dignity, choice, and self-determination.

Why is retirement living in Texas good for seniors?

In addition to the Federal Nursing Home Law, Texas seniors can benefit from the states’ Department of Aging and Disabilities (DADS) and section 102.003 of the Texas Human Resources Code:

DADS	Texas Human Resources Code
The Office of the Attorney General works to make sure seniors are treated with respect and dignity DADS provides inspection and certification of senior living properties It is illegal for long-term care facilities to retaliate or interfere with any investigation into mistreatment Report elder abuse to the Attorney General	Right to be Free to Exercise Civil Rights Under the Law Right to Dignity and Respect Right to be Free from Physical and Mental Abuse Right to Privacy Right to Participation in Activities Right to Manage Financial Affairs *view the whole code here.

Can my family make decisions for me?

Legally, no. Seniors are free to make decisions for themselves. “If a senior is competent, they can choose how and where they want to live,” says an article by Aging Care. The judicial system tends to lean in favor of seniors’ independence. Establishing guardianship or power of attorney over an older adult is a complicated and costly process for family members or caretakers to achieve.

Do senior living communities control residents’ finances?

At communities like Meadow Lake in Tyler, TX, you “buy-in” with an entry fee which can lower what you pay monthly for services. The entry fee is an asset to protect your future. Benefits of buying in:

• The entry fee locks in the monthly rate you will pay over time
• The fee is 90 percent refundable
• Guarantees your access to the community’s care services you may need in the future

Read more information on the ER Senior Management payment structure here.

Will I have privacy in a senior living community?

You have a right to privacy when:

• You receive medical treatment
• You meet with friends or family
• You talk on the phone or correspond via mail
• You receive mail
• Having access to resident councils
• Sharing a care room with your spouse

Can I bring personal items to senior living?

Absolutely. We consider it a privilege to provide services in your home and you should decorate it however you feel comfortable. At communities like The Oaks at Bartlett in Illinois, we can assist with downsizing. This includes:

• Space planning
• Hiring reputable movers
• Packing and unpacking

Find ER Senior Management communities in Texas or Illinois where you can live the life you want and enjoy the freedom you deserve. Services vary by location; contact us to learn more.