Finding the proper care for an aging loved one can be daunting. The search for appropriate senior living often involves navigating complex emotional, logistical, and financial challenges.
After years of working in IT, finance, and management, Nick Ratiu noticed a significant gap in how families search for senior living options. Families often struggle to navigate a fragmented, outdated system. Motivated to improve this experience, he founded Loved Ones First (LovedOnesFirst.com), a senior living referral company. It offers a streamlined service that combines compassion, expertise, and innovation for families seeking quality senior care.
What is Loved Ones First?
The core mission of Loved Ones First is to help seniors and their families find appropriate care, whether for Independent Living, Assisted Living, or Memory Care. The service is designed to address both practical and emotional needs, ensuring a smooth and dignified transition.
Loved Ones First focuses on three primary types of senior living: Independent Living, Assisted Living, and Memory Care. These communities vary in size and offerings, from large facilities to smaller group homes. Ratiu’s personalized approach ensures families find the right fit for their loved ones based on health needs, financial situation, and personal preferences.
The Selection Process
The process begins with assessing needs, where Ratiu gathers information on the senior’s health, cognitive status, mobility, and social preferences. Next, he works with families to determine financial considerations and helps them explore funding options such as Medicaid, veteran programs, and other assistance programs.
The focus shifts to location preferences once health and financial details are reviewed. Proximity to family, medical services, and community resources can significantly impact a senior’s well-being. Ratiu helps families identify facilities that meet these logistical needs while considering the senior’s emotional connection to the area.
Choosing the right facility goes beyond location and cost. Ratiu personally visits and evaluates each potential community, considering key factors like staff-to-resident ratios, cleanliness, and quality of care. He also reviews state audits to ensure the facilities meet regulatory standards.
Important Considerations
Cultural and lifestyle preferences are also an important consideration. Whether the senior prefers a pet-friendly environment, specific activities, or language support, Ratiu ensures the community meets these needs. Additionally, future planning is critical; Ratiu helps families choose a facility that can accommodate evolving care needs over time.
Safety is paramount for families seeking memory care. Ratiu evaluates security measures, such as secure perimeters and emergency response systems, to ensure that residents are safe and well-cared for.
Ratiu also educates families on the emotional journey of transitioning a loved one to senior living. Many families feel guilt or anxiety, but he reminds them that this change can offer a new chapter of social engagement, safety, and professional care.
Many families are surprised by the cost difference between staying home and moving into a senior community. Ratiu breaks down the costs, showing that the total cost of maintaining a home can sometimes be higher than moving to a senior community. Moreover, he emphasizes the value of senior living communities, where amenities like meals, housekeeping, fitness programs, and social activities contribute to a higher quality of life.
Ongoing Support
Unlike some services, Loved Ones First offers ongoing support even after placement. Ratiu advocates for families, helping with negotiations, addressing issues that arise post-move, and ensuring long-term satisfaction. His extensive network of trusted partners—including financial advisors, elder law attorneys, and senior real estate professionals—ensures that families receive comprehensive, holistic support.
By leveraging Ratiu’s financial expertise, Loved Ones First transforms the senior living placement process by offering tailored, compassionate service. Families can trust Ratiu to simplify a complex process and ensure their loved ones receive the care they deserve.
LEARN MORE: Contact Nick Ratiu at 602.412.3233 or via email at nick@lovedonesfirst.com.