As Americans age and many of us are reaching retirement age ourselves, many people are choosing to move out of their large, family homes and live in an assisted living facility or community.
Though every individual or family may have their own unique set of reasons why they believe that assisted living is better, here are 8 of the most popular reasons why many choose this option.
1. Access to Round-The-Clock Professional Care
Not everyone may need constant and continuous care when they first move into these types of facilities or communities, but just knowing that this type of care is available at all hours helps put everyone’s mind at ease. Just because you or your loved may be perfectly healthy now, with age the need long-term care becomes increasingly more important. Round-the-clock care is almost impossible in a home setting, where there are so many other commitments.
2. Appropriate Social Situations
Many assisted living facilities are set up as small, private communities in extremely safe areas, so residents have numerous activities they may choose to engage in. Having this kind of social stimulation and interaction with others of the same age are what helps seniors stay healthier in assisted living. It also keep their minds sharp.
3. Low-Maintenance Living
Many assisted living facilities have housekeeping staff, lawn maintenance workers, and on-site laundry facilities so seniors don’t have to worry about keeping up with yard work, housework, or laundry. These types of facilities are good options for those who may be too physically weak to maintain an independent home.
4. Good Nutrition
Assisted living facilities have kitchen staff, cooks, and cafeterias available to those who live there, and the staff are professional nutritionists and health advisors who make sure residents get regular meals, healthy snacks, and can be counted on to accommodate any special dietary needs.
5. Peace of Mind for the Family
Adult children may not always have the time, money, or medical resources available to constantly care for their ill and aging parents. Many families breathe more easily knowing their parents are located in a safe, clean, nurturing assisted living facility that can take care of their parents’ medical and social needs.
Many assisted living facilities encourage family, friends, and even pets to come and visit, and these same facilities also love to entertain during the holiday season.
6. Help with Daily Living
Even though some seniors may not think they will ever really need to rely on help with their daily needs, assisted living facilities make life easier for everyone there by providing assistance with necessities such as grocery shopping, medication, hair salons, and forms of entertainment. There are nurses and doctors on staff to help with serious medical needs, and there are daily assistants who help with other activities as well.
7. Sense of Community with Other Seniors
Many people who live in assisted living facilities relish the sense of community with peers their own age. In addition to the social activities, it also gives them a feeling of solidarity with other seniors.
8. Home Away From Home
Once residents get settled into their new routine in an assisted living facility, their health and well-being improves. When elderly relatives are healthy, the whole family benefits!
Assisted living facilities are staffed with knowledgeable people who love working with elderly residents, and who go out of their way to make sure that all seniors under their care are healthy and happy. Knowing this gives seniors all the reassurance they need that assisted living is the right choice.
