Assisted living is a more comprehensive care option, including non-medical services like housekeeping and meals. Seniors may be able to pay for this level of care with their Medicare benefits, Medicaid waiver programs, or private long-term insurance.
Independent living offers a variety of perks for older adults who don’t need around-the-clock medical care. These perks can include classes and learning opportunities, outings, and social activities.
Health and Wellness
Assisted living is often the next step for seniors who can no longer manage daily tasks like cooking, cleaning, or raking leaves but still need help with medication management, transportation, and personal finances. Many communities also offer on-site primary care practices to reduce appointment travel time.
Independent living residents can choose from various apartment options, villas, and cottages on campus, and most have access to a full schedule of life-enriching activities like book clubs, movie nights, and cocktail hours. They can participate in fitness classes like yoga, tai chi, or walking clubs to stay active and healthy. Some may even learn a new skill in an on-site workshop. These social engagements can help prevent loneliness and depression that can be associated with homelessness or aging in place alone.
Socialization
Socialization in assisted living can help overcome emotions of loneliness and isolation, which can lead to cognitive decline. It can also help seniors feel connected to others in their community, which leads to a happier life. Attending group discussions, learning something new in classes, or participating in book clubs encourages seniors to engage with others. Moreover, it stimulates the brain and increases neuron generation, promoting memory and thinking skills.
Typically, a senior living community will have an event calendar filled with activities, out-trips, and opportunities for socialization. It will have amenities like walking paths, gazebos, and cafes for everyone to enjoy. It will also have housekeeping and transportation services to take residents to grocery stores, shopping centers, and doctor’s appointments. Moreover, it will provide additional care services such as medication management or bathing assistance if needed.
Transportation
The first step is to ascertain whether your loved one wants to give up on menial tasks like cooking, driving, and housekeeping or requires help with everyday living activities.
Independent living communities are designed to eliminate everyday hassles and typically feature a clubhouse, on-site dining, housekeeping, and social events. In addition to socialization, these communities offer an array of convenient services like transportation services and shuttles that make it easier for seniors to get to places they enjoy.
Assisted living facilities provide services offered by IL communities but include additional hands-on assistance with bathing and managing medication. They also have nurses and other medical professionals on call at all times. Social Security, personal funds, long-term care insurance, or veterans’ aid programs can pay for these services.
Medication Management
For people who have trouble remembering to take their medications, a community that offers medication management can be a lifesaver. These communities use electronic medication administration records (eMAR) to ensure the right people receive the correct prescriptions at the correct times.
The eMAR system also allows regular reviews of each person’s medications to identify potential drug interactions and adjust dosages. This may lessen the possibility of adverse effects or even overdosages.
Assisted living facilities usually have a monthly fee that includes rent and amenities/services.
Safety
As families tour communities, they should see if there are common areas for socializing, a dining room with plenty of meal options, and an organized activities calendar. Talking with staff members about their qualifications, experience, and certifications is also essential.
An excellent place to start is determining the level of assistance your loved one will need. Independent living offers the most minor support, while assisted living provides more help with daily tasks such as bathing and dressing.
Often, senior citizens who live alone are at higher risk of depression and loneliness. They can engage in enjoyable activities and meet new people by relocating to a senior community. This helps them to feel less isolated and keeps their minds engaged.
