Maintaining independence is an important factor for people as they age. However, as we do inevitably age, simple daily activities become more difficult and may require assistance. So, how can one get that kind of help and still be independent? The solution is assisted living. Assisted living is a long term care service that is offered to people who require various levels of medical and personal care. Assisted living facilities provide a home-like setting and are physically designed to promote the resident’s independence. The living spaces can be individual rooms, shared quarters, or apartments. 

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What Services do Assisted Living Communities Provide?

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The services offered by assisted living communities vary, but the services generally include the following: 

• Medical services

• 24-hour emergency care 

• Personal care that includes bathing and dressing 

• Social and recreational activities 

• Housekeeping and laundry 

• Transportation 

• Supervision and assistance for those with Alzheimer’s, Dementia, and other disabilities

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Benefits of Assisted Living 

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• Many older adults feel lonely or isolated living at home. Assisted living facilities offer the chance to socialize daily with other adults. 

• It is important for elderly adults to engage in brain-stimulating activities to reduce the risk of developing cognitive impairments. At assisted living facilities, they offer many social and recreational activities, such as cooking and dancing, among others, to maintain and preserve cognitive function. 

• Assisted living facilities offer a more home-like setting with personal freedom and privacy that many seniors appreciate. 

• Generally have a lower monthly cost than a nursing home

• Assisted living centers provide a safe and comfortable environment

  

How To Know When It May Be Time for Assisted Living? 

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• You have experienced at least one fall, with or without injury 

• Meal preparation is difficult 

• It is getting harder to safely maneuver around the house 

• You have noticed signs of hunger or that nutritional needs are not being met

• It is getting harder to get dressed and/or bathe

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What Should I Look For in an Assisted Living Community? 

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When considering assisted living, the following questions will help you and your family evaluate assisted living facilities.

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• Are the staff members appropriately trained? 

• Did you receive a warm greeting from the staff? Are they personable and outgoing? 

• Are the staff members available to meet scheduled and unscheduled needs? 

• Do the residents socialize with each other and appear happy and comfortable? 

• How do they respond to medical emergencies? 

• Is the residence clean, odor-free, and appropriately cooled or heated? 

• Is there an activity program? 

• Are the staff members available to provide 24-hour assistance with activities of daily living, including: 

  • Dressing 

  • Eating 

  • Laundry 

  • Transportation 

  • Medication needs