If you’re worried about a loved one living alone (whether a senior or special-needs adult), you may have looked into different options for care provision and housing. As such, you may have heard about assisted living and wondered if it might be the right option for your family member.
Let’s cover the basics of assisted living below.
Assisted Living Defined
Assisted living is a housing subtype that provides residents with medical and personal care services in addition to housing. There are several types of living spaces in which an individual receiving this care may reside, including shared rooms, single rooms, and apartments.
The goal of this type of living is to provide residents with the care they need while allowing them to be independent adults.
What Do Assisted Living Amenities Include?
In many ways, assisted living is similar to independent living that enables individuals to live their lives as they see fit. The “assistance” in assisted living simply provides residents with the help that they may need when it comes to managing different aspects of their lives. These services may include:
- Medication management
- Transportation to appointments
- Housekeeping
- Laundry services
- Personal care (dressing, bathing, etc.)
- Recreational activities
- Meal provision (between 1 and 3 depending on the facility)
- Some medical services
- Mobility assistance
Seniors Who Benefit From Assisted Living
Seniors who are an ideal fit for assisted living are those who strive to live active and independent lives. However, these individuals usually struggle to perform specific daily tasks, and they require assistance in these areas.
Individuals in assisted living are generally healthy in that they do not need 24-hour supervision or care. For example, a person in assisted living may live a very active life, spend time with friends, and get involved in community activities.
Yet, this person may also benefit from having a personal caregiver help them in and out of the shower, coordinate their medical appointments, and remind them to take their medications.
An assisted living community may also provide residents with convenient activity options. Some communities have an on-site gym, a formal dining room, a diverse selection of events to attend, and pool/spa combinations.
Additionally, these communities provide seniors with safety and security, as well as the ability to maintain close contact with their peers.
To determine whether assisted living is right for your loved one, it’s a good idea to reach out to the communities in your area. An assisted living community coordinator is often a great resource when it comes to gathering more information, asking questions, and touring the environment you’re considering.