There are some reasons why you or a loved one may consider moving into assisted living. The options are wide-ranging, and choosing the right place is a big decision.
A Home-like Environment
Many assisted living facilities offer private studio, one-bedroom, and dorm-style apartments. Many of these are fully furnished, but some allow residents to bring their furniture for a more home-like feel. Some also have kitchens, allowing residents to cook in their apartments or enjoy meals in the community dining room.
Being alone greatly contributes to depression in seniors, so assisted living facilities provide an active social environment. They also offer safety features, like alarm systems in each apartment, so seniors can easily reach out for help if they have trouble with anything from falling to being unable to get out of bed. It is a great opportunity to check an assisted living website to be guided about their services.
Help with Activities of Daily Living (ADLs)
Assisted living is great for seniors who need help with activities of daily living, such as bathing and dressing. These communities also offer various services, such as communal meals, social activities, and upgraded WiFi. Seniors living alone can be at risk for serious injuries or accidents due to falls, medication mishaps, etc. Safety features such as secure entrances, apartment alarm systems, and 24-hour care staff are often available in assisted living.
Transportation
If your senior has trouble getting around or can’t afford private transportation, assisted living offers safe and reliable transport services that take them where they need to go. They’ll be able to enjoy shopping and errands rather than becoming increasingly isolated at home. In addition, your loved one won’t have to worry about chores like heavy cleaning, cooking, and shoveling snow. If they have trouble walking, the staff will help them get around with specially designed transportation that accommodates all physical ability levels.
Socialization
Many assisted living facilities offer their residents a range of social activities, such as exercise classes, arts and crafts, group discussions, and educational lectures. These activities often provide a platform for seniors to make friends with individuals who share similar interests. They can also help them develop meaningful connections as they continue to learn and grow in their golden years.
Seniors must maintain a healthy social life, as isolation can lead to depression and reduced self-esteem. In addition to socialization, assisted living offers a variety of other benefits that can improve mental health and well-being, including increased feelings of belonging and purpose.
Health Care
If your aging loved one needs more help than family and in-home care can offer, it might be time to consider assisted living. Whether they are struggling with bathing, meal preparation, or getting dressed, having the right level of assistance can improve their quality of life.
They will have access to various services that help them stay safe, healthy, and active. With staff on-call to help with scheduled needs and emergencies, it will be easy for them to get the care they need. Residents will also benefit from a sense of community by meeting new friends, knowing the staff by name, and engaging in daily activities that can enrich their mental health and wellness. They may even take on a hobby they never had the chance to do before!
