Many seniors resist assisted living, stating that they “don’t want to be in a home,” but often, a little education about senior living communities can help families and their senior loved ones choose the best option for their unique situations.
In fact, research has shown that aging parents and seniors prefer assisted living over other types of care, as these communities have expanded their market by providing fun convenience, retirement and socialization services.
Better Health and Happiness Are a Way of Life in Assisted Living
Senior living is a great step for seniors who need more socialization and help with daily needs than the family can provide at home. Here are a few compelling reasons to consider assisted living to better the health and quality of life of your senior loved one:
1. Nutritious Meals
Assisted living offers nutritious, often chef-prepared cuisine catered for specific medical conditions and needs. Residents are served three meals a day tailored to their changing health needs and some luxury communities even offer luxury dining.
2. Help With Daily Living
Family caregivers are also generally responsible for helping with activities of daily living (ADLs) such as bathing, dressing and eating when a senior loved one lives at home. In other cases, the family or the senior themselves must bear the cost of a home care aide. Both of these options can cause strain on the family. In contrast, one of the most basic tenets of assisted living is helping older adults with these ADLs so that they can continue to function as independently as possible.
3. Intellectual Stimulation
Assisted living communities offer many opportunities for learning, such as book clubs, computer classes, gardening and more. Some communities are even located near a college so that residents can take advantage of nearby campus resources, including courses and cultural offerings.
4. No Stress of Housekeeping and Transportation
Keeping up with appointments, daily chores and housekeeping are often stressful for not only seniors but also their family. The vast majority of these burdens are relieved in assisted living and the community offers housekeeping and transportation services.
5. Physical Activity and Fitness
Many assisted living communities offer exercise classes, gym equipment and even personal trainers to help with elder fitness and physical therapy.
6. Safe Living Environment
Often, home modifications and in-home care are required for a safe living environment in the family home, which can be very costly. Assisted living is designed for accessibility and mobility while also offering expert care and medical attention if needed.
7. Social Activity
Living at home can be isolating. Seniors often find it difficult to maintain their social relationships when they are retired. Assisted living offers socialization through planned activities and outings, such as cultural events and field trips. Daily living in the common areas also offers fun and socialization for seniors.
