In fact, there is a type of senior living community that is a home-like setting where seniors can regain their independence.
What is assisted living?
Assisted living is a type of senior living that provides housing, personalized care and support with activities of daily living. The goal is to help you remain independent and enjoy an engaging, purposeful life.
Care may be included in the monthly rental fee, or provided on an ala cart basis where you choose how much help you want and need.
Download our free ebook, Just the Facts: Your Guide to Assisted Living, to learn more.
What can you expect in assisted living?
Residents receive assistance with bathing, dressing, eating and medication as well as onsite medical care when needed. They have the convenience of a homelike setting without the worry of home upkeep, cooking, cleaning and yard maintenance. Social opportunities are also integral to daily life in assisted living with a range of scheduled programs, activities and outings.
Assisted living community features may include:
- Comfortable, spacious accommodations
- 24-hour supervision and security
- Daily meals
- Housekeeping and laundry service
- Exercise programs
- Transportation
- Access to medical services
And it’s not just the resident who benefits, the family does too with:
- Less caregiver stress and more free time
- Ability to be daughter, son, husband or wife again versus a caregiver
It’s important to note that assisted living is not for those with medical conditions that require round-the-clock assistance or specialized care such as Alzheimer’s disease and dementia, although skilled nursing and/or memory care may be on the same campus.
A care-free lifestyle
Seniors living in assisted living don’t have to worry about home upkeep, cooking, cleaning, and yard maintenance. They can receive help with bathing, dressing, or managing their medications if they need it. Because all these worries are looked after, their days can be more enjoyable.
People who move to assisted living are often surprised by how their lives improve. They’re relieved that they have the support they need to start living fully-engaged lives again.
They’re able to take part in interesting onsite activities that weren’t available to them when they were living in their own home. They find it easier to make new friends because they’re surrounded by people with similar experiences and interests. They’re impressed by the daily restaurant-style meals and appreciate not having to cook for themselves. They also value the easy access to transportation and onsite health services.
These benefits aren’t always obvious to seniors who are living at home and struggling with health issues. That’s why they may resist suggestions that they consider moving to assisted living.
If you’re concerned about the safety or quality of life of a senior who’s struggling at home, assisted living may be a good fit for them.
Read our free ebook, Just the Facts: Your Guide to Assisted Living, to learn more. Among other things, it explores the question “how do you know when it’s time to make the move to assisted living?”
