There is a seemingly endless number of ailments that may affect your senior cat, either for the first time once they reach this age or more frequently at this age than at any point previously. According to dr. Schmid, common health conditions that can affect senior cats include:
cancer
cognitive dysfunction
keep in mind, a number of physical and behavioral changes you may observe in your senior cat are symptoms of some or all of these conditions. Not only that, “cats are very good at hiding signs of disease and pain,” dr. Schmid adds.
For that reason, she advises senior cat parents to move to a schedule of visiting the vet every six months, instead of the usual yearly checkup during early and mid-adulthood.
Though it may be tempting to choose a community based on proximity to a current home or loved ones, or to simply choose the most affordable option, there are far more important factors to consider. First and foremost, consider the quality, safety and reputation of the community. Then, when touring the community, keep the following tips in mind: take note of the state of the building and grounds. When approaching the community, make sure there are outdoor gathering areas for residents to enjoy the fresh air, and note how well-maintained the parking lots, walkways and landscaping are. Inside, the reception area should be welcoming, and the hallways and communal areas bright and inviting.
Here are some things to keep in mind as you look for senior housing: is the community in an area with easy access to transportation, medical care, and shops? does the community look as though it’s well maintained and clean? how well-trained is the staff? what is their screening process when hiring? are residents engaged? how many social events does the community offer per month? how often does the menu change, and how does the food taste? are the common areas being utilized? are these spaces appealing and well-equipped? what’s included in the rent, and what is the payment schedule? is there a grace period for payment? are family members allowed (or encouraged) to visit any time, or do they have to schedule ahead?.
3. Connect with Families, Residents, and Staff
No matter what type of independent living facility you consider, you want to make sure you connect with peers and feel comfortable in the community. When you visit the area, talk with some of the residents.
Are they people you’d like to know better? are support services timely, with a staff that’s friendly and accessible? if there is a community restaurant, sample a meal if possible, and spend time interacting with other residents.
Senior apartments offer benefits like living near people of similar age and enjoying amenities. Though each apartment building is different, common features include:
there is no doubt that working with your cat to teach her different tricks and commands helps to improve communication between you.
As a first-time apartment renter, reviewing your lease agreement is one of the most important steps to getting your apartment. Though the lease may contain complex language, it will outline the most important agreements you’re making by signing it. Here are a few things you should make a note of: the length of your lease the pet policy and any special terms (like additional fees) deposit requirements and how your deposit is returned sub-letting rules maintenance procedures liens or claims to your property if you don’t pay rent when in doubt, having your lease reviewed by a landlord-tenant attorney is a great idea. The attorney will be able to catch any illegal provisions, explain how provisions work, point out unfavorable provisions and their consequences, and suggest changes that provide you with a more favorable lease.