The resources and choices available to senior people today are various and can help them achieve their wellness objectives. Although this is undoubtedly wonderful news, having too many choices can make it difficult for seniors and their family members to choose the best course of action.
Senior living communities are presently home to one million US people, and that demography will change over time to 2-3 times more. As the population increases, more seniors are looking to other options, including assisted living facilities, to raise their quality of life.
Assisted living facilities can be freestanding buildings or a component of a wider network of senior care services. The United States Department of Health and Human Services (DSHS) classifies them as options for senior citizens who may need help getting dressed, bathing, eating, and using the restroom but do not require intensive medical care. Assisted living communities can support seniors in aging gracefully by providing various benefits, including personalized care, social interaction, and a safe environment that promotes independence and well-being.
1. Daily assistance and support
Almost 15% of adults 65 and older need assistance on a daily basis with tasks like taking a shower, dressing, or using the toilet. People of all ages may need to depend on family members or caregivers for these ADLS or other necessities like grocery shopping, utility bill paying, or mental support.
In addition to providing residents with the ongoing support they need through daily assistance from staff, an assisted living facility may reduce the anxieties of family members.
2. Adaptability
Assisted living facilities usually provide extra support as the needs of the residents change. While they could benefit from social interactions today and need help with transportation, their community can provide increasing levels of support if they start to need help with dressing and taking a shower.
Some assisted living programs’ flexibility can provide long-term stability as people grow or their requirements change.
3. Good nutrition and foods
The effects of low hygiene on senior people are significant. The nutritional needs of seniors people are changing, according to the Mayo Clinic. Seniors’ dietary demands may not be met due to three main reasons, including despair and culinary challenges.
Low-quality or uneven food may weaken immune systems and lead to numerous health problems. With assisted living, you may enjoy nourishing meals cooked by experienced professionals while avoiding the everyday stress of cooking and grocery shopping.
4. Community and social connections
According to research, seniors who are more engaged with family and friends have a significant impact on their quality of life. Maintaining social connections with loved ones may be more crucial for staying away from depression and loneliness than having adequate financial resources.
Residents who live in assisted living have the opportunity to make new friends and be engaged with them in social activities.
5. Transportation
Many people can drive safely as they age, but some require assistance getting to and from shopping, doctor’s appointments, and other places. Statistics have shown a statistical correlation between a greater incidence of fatal accidents among licensed drivers 65 and older and slower response times and eyesight problems.
A community that offers seniors transportation assistance can give families reassurance that their elderly loved ones are safe on the roads. Seniors shouldn’t feel like they are burdening their families with transportation costs by receiving safe transportation to planned activities like shopping and medical appointments.
6. Activities
Seniors who experience loneliness and sadness may experience worsening health conditions or social anxiety. Communities for an assisted living give residents easy access to a range of activities that help them keep their friendships and make new ones. and gain new knowledge.
Activities can play a significant role in factors that affect long-term quality of life, from organized outings and lunches to frequent game nights or community movies.
7. Fewer Household Tasks:
For seniors who require assistance with daily tasks, having to maintain a home or apartment can be taxing. Cooking, gardening, and housework can all lead to chronic stress or even increase the risk of certain accidents like falls in people who need assistance. Seniors are relieved of the daily tasks associated with home ownership at an assisted living facility.
8. Independence:
Nobody likes to age and become less independent. According to research, some elderly individuals in our society consider losing their freedom to be worse than death. Seniors who only require a little help may be reluctant to move into a skilled nursing facility; assisted living might provide them the chance to maintain their independence.
Assisted living can help senior people maintain their dignity by allowing them to participate in activities of their choosing and host family and friends.
9. Low Cost:
Assisted living facility residents frequently pay less than those getting care at home. The monthly and annual fees for senior residents living at home in the neighborhood can pile up rapidly. Property taxes are a recurring expense for homeowners in addition to their monthly mortgage payments. The costs of living at home start out high, but living costs at an assisted living facility is lower with more facilities to live life independently at an older age.
10. Peace of Mind:
The choices for assisted living and memory care can be very important for individuals and their loved ones. Seniors must manage a number of competing needs, including their desire for independence, help with daily duties, financial stability, and insurance. We work as an interdisciplinary team to develop personalized programs that are tailored to each resident’s requirements, and we invite family participation.
However, peace of mind for senior people and their loved ones might be one of the largest advantages of assisted living.
Assisted Living Can Be a path to Happier Seniors
Family members might feel less anxious when they know their senior people are receiving help and support. Residents’ satisfaction and quality of life can increase as they take use of personalized services and dynamic communities without having to worry about cooking, cleaning, or making transportation arrangements.
