Title: Senior Living Made S.I.M.P.L.E.

Author: Shari Ross

Genre: Self-Help

 

The decision to place a parent in a senior living facility is often fraught with anxiety and doubt, as the prospective location may serve as a mother’s/father’s final residence. Comfort, care, and affordability are all factors that weigh heavily on the mind of the next of kin. In considering the options for mom, dad, or other beloved family member, author Shari Ross believes that support, information, matching, preparation, letting go, and engagement (S.I.M.P.L.E.) are key factors to consider in navigating an emotional but necessary life choice. A son or daughter must acknowledge their parents’ condition, evaluate institutions that meet their parents’ needs, and pick a new home that will prove satisfactory to their parents, while monitoring their progress after the move.

Shari Ross has taken her expertise in the environment of Senior Living and conveys her grasp of an often-emotional subject in a clear and concise manner. Ross provides a wealth of anecdotes, some poignant and others humorous, throughout the book, which are germane to the subject matter and prove impactful. Ross dives into the nuts and bolts of each level of assisted living and is blunt in her honesty. While serving as an instructional road map, Ross’s empathy comes through in every chapter.

Compassion emerges as a predominant theme throughout the book, as a son or daughter seeks to find their parents’ future caregiver. Upon realizing a parent is undeniably suffering from an enduring and debilitating condition, the consideration becomes what is best for that parent. Throughout the book, Ross evinces compassion for both parent and child in their ordeal and illustrates how best to navigate the lengthy process and successfully plan their parents’ future accommodations.

Understanding serves as a significant theme in the book, as Ross meticulously lays out the necessary steps in locating an assisted living facility. Ross thoroughly explains the approximate price for each level of care facility and why the decision-making relative must acknowledge what is or is not covered by insurance and when numbers fluctuate, leading to higher bills. While the pricing may seem excessive, the quality of life offered is inarguable and finalizes the arrangement. This appreciation continues well after a new home has been chosen, and the parents’ development is monitored.

Ross’s words are meant to give peace of mind to family members put in a tough predicament, and she elucidates her chosen method perfectly. The impact of her book would be augmented with the addition of a chapter explaining how she became involved in the Senior Living field and what led her to develop the S.I.M.P.L.E. method.

Senior Living Made S.I.M.P.L.E. deconstructs an arduous undertaking and does so in a way that provides hope. In addition to providing meaningful advice, Ross clears up misconceptions about the senior living environment. Author Shari Ross introduces rationality to a dramatic concept, and her tone is both educational and charismatic. This book is an indispensable read for those who are facing or will someday face this eventuality.

 

 

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