Whenever people hear anything about assisted living, they think of negative thoughts such as loneliness and idle people. These perceptions have affected the societal picture of assisted living services. This explains why many people still want their parents to move in with them when they get old.
The negative perceptions do not cover the actual image of assisted living services. There are more to these homes than people think. Moreover, these homes are a pinnacle for happiness and a longer lifespan for the elderly.
Here are 8 Interesting Assisted Living Facts
1. Assisted living is not a senior home
The objectives of senior living have changed from elders who need assistance due to age to offering various forms of assistance depending on the unique needs of individuals. The assisted homes are no longer places where the elderly crowd or just rest. Residents are currently getting additional services such as help with meditation, reflection, new hobbies and various skills. Modern assisted living also offers extra support such as dressing, bathing, and driving the elderly to locations they wish to visit.
They are also called skilled nursing facilities because they provide round-the-clock medical services offered by trained nurses and medical teams. The skilled nurses offer both short and long-term medical needs.
2. Assisted living is not for only those who need constant help
Assisted living homes also provide additional services for those who need independence. There are amenities suited for those who need independent living and private space. There are also amenities for those who need special attention and attires, such as incontinence briefs. You can enjoy living independently while accessing other necessary medical services such as therapy, counseling, and checkups. In such facilities, you are free to meet your different needs while enjoying private space in your quarters.
3. Moving to senior living homes should not be a separation
Most elderlies fail to go to senior living residences because they fear hurting the emotions of other family members through goodbyes. Senior homes are not like prisons or death camps that separate families. Moving away from your kids is a chance to explore your independence at old age and allow your kids and grandchildren to explore their careers and other life objectives. The homes do not separate you from them since they have the freedom to visit at any time. The residents are also free to visit their families whenever they want and attend Thanksgiving dinners without restrictions.
4. Assisted living comes with a different lifestyle
Many people consider assisted living homes as one of the places with boring schedules or activities. This is not the case; the homes host various events, and the members get social calendars detailing the month’s activities. The homes pride themselves in keeping the residents happy to live longer through fun social games and events.
There are daily social sessions such as book clubs, movie nights that allow the elderlies to connect, establish new relationships and enjoy the benefit of living in a community. The homes also strive to improve physical fitness to keep the residents safe.
5. You have the freedom to determine your meals
The meals provided in assisted homes focus on meeting the healthcare needs of the individuals. The meals get prepared differently to help residents achieve various nutrition benefits. Sometimes residents get special meals or favorite dishes when they order in advance. The dining experience offered in assisted living homes also includes a variety of meals to help the residents achieve balanced diet needs. You can choose from multiple alternatives, and you can serve based on your appetite. However, the meals get cooked with health concerns in mind. You will rarely get fatty foods or those that are considered unsafe for elderlies.
6. People live longer than anticipated.
Various factors can speed up death for the elderly. These factors include boredom and loneliness that can lead to stigma and mental health crises. Lack of fitness due to long hours of sitting and lack of mobility. Lack of proper medical care and assistance. Assisted living homes resolve all these problems by allowing the elderly to live longer.
The houses have a social session to eliminate boredom; they teach the members to promote good mental health. There are various activities to promote fitness, and the homes have 24/7 medical care services. These factors allow the elderly to live longer than expected.
7. No more stress
Assisted living centers are stress-free; the elderlies do not have the challenges of thinking about meals, family, and other things. In the homes, the slogan is to live like a free man with no strings attached. Everything gets done on your behalf; all the meals are available, and you can engage in various activities during the day to eliminate any stress. You can also make friends pass the time with and avoid boredom.
8. Assisted living is affordable and sometimes better than home care
Homecare refers to a situation whereby medical personnel is assigned to care for the needs of the elderly at their premises. Assisted living homes refer to moving to a new shelter and beginning a new life away from home. It surpasses home care in various ways since you have your peers to keep you company. It is also less expensive since the facility distributes the costs amongst the residents. You get full-time advanced medical care at lower costs. You have no movement retractions when in assisted living.
Conclusion
The attitude towards assisted living is majorly affected by people’s perceptions and fears. The truth is that assisted living is more than people think; those who have tried it out issue excellent reviews due to the transformations in the environment and the services offered in such facilities. Their biggest benefits are their affordability, social activities, available medical services, and the focus on residents’ happiness.
Watch this space for updates in the Facts category on Running Wolf’s Rant.
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