Senior Living Options
As our loved ones age, so do their needs, and everyone’s aging journey looks different. Some older adults are able to live out their retirement years playing golf and enjoying relatively few health problems. In contrast, others require a degree of assistance, dictated by health and safety concerns. The spectrum of senior housing options makes it so all older adults can find a senior care or housing level that works for them, no matter where their needs fall.
From aging in place with caregivers’ help to assisted living, there are many options that enable seniors to remain as independent as possible while receiving care. Some seniors find it possible to stay in their family home with some outside help; others choose to join a community of seniors in an assisted living setting. For seniors who need a more secure environment or cannot care for themselves, memory care and skilled nursing facilities may be appropriate solutions.
The many choices for senior housing can be overwhelming. The following comprehensive senior housing guide will provide you with more information about your options in today’s senior housing market, along with the information you need to make an educated decision about the right senior living option for your loved one.
Assisted Living
Assisted living is a type of residential senior care well-suited for seniors who need some assistance with their activities of daily living, but do not need any regular medical care. Residents have access to staff around-the-clock for emergency assistance and receive assistance with their daily tasks, including eating, dressing, and bathing. Assisted living residents only receive the care that they need, enabling them to retain their independence as much as possible while also having help available whenever it is required.
Assisted Living Services and Amenities
The services offered in assisted living focus on the activities of daily living, which include essential daily tasks such as bathing, dressing, eating, grooming, and transferring (walking). Residents of ALFs have access to as much assistance with ADLs as they need, but can also live as independently as they wish. Along with ADL assistance, ALFs offer other personal care services, including housekeeping and linen services, laundry, and transportation.
Many assisted living facilities also offer amenities for residents to enjoy, such as a fitness center, arts and crafts room, or formal dining room for dinner parties. Some may also have an on-site beauty parlor or barbershop, outdoor common areas, a library or computer room, and more.
Who Should Consider Assisted Living
Assisted living is a good option for older adults who are starting to have more difficulties living independently. This includes those struggling with mobility or fine motor skills, seniors who recently suffered an injury or health emergency, and seniors in the very early stages of memory impairment. Some signs that a loved one may be a good fit for assisted living include unpaid bills, noticeable weight loss, and a noticeable decline in cleanliness or hygiene. Assisted living communities can provide both seniors and their families with peace of mind knowing that staff is on-site around-the-clock to help residents in case of an emergency.
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