What Does Assisted Living Mean?
Assisted living forms part of long-term care services that provides a combination of housing, personal care, and health care designed to respond to aging individuals who need assistance with normal daily activities in a way that promotes independence.
Assisted living is also sometimes referred to as extra-care housing or retirement living which allows residents over the age of 55 or 60 to live independently. They are offered a self-contained apartment or other appropriate housing options and have staff that is available to them 24 hours a day to provide personal care.
Who requires assisted living?
Generally speaking, anyone over the age of 55 who wishes to live independently, but who may require assistance with some everyday personal care tasks, such as wound dressing, or even getting in and out of the bath. Often, this is referred to as activities of daily living (ADLs).
How do you know when an aging loved one is ready for assisted living?
It may be tricky at first to spot the ‘signs’ that an aging loved one is ready to move to an Assisted Living facility, especially when they are relatively active and otherwise healthy.
Some of the more obvious signs that a loved one may benefit from an Assisted Living facility would be:
- Recurring falls in and around the house, or unexplained bruises on some parts of your aging loved one’s body. This may in some instances be an indicator that your loved one is having trouble with mobility, meaning their own home can become a health hazard for them.
- If you find yourself checking up on an aging loved one regularly to ensure they are taking their prescribed medication at a specific time.
- The general upkeep of your aging loved one’s home is being neglected.
- Sudden or dramatic weight loss due to an insufficient diet.
- Apparent neglect of basic hygiene of their person, as well as their surroundings.
- A decreased ability to drive themselves around, or even a total inability to drive altogether.
- The inability to properly care for a pet, or in some instances the neglect of an existing pet/s.
- Increased social isolation from friends, family, and the greater community.
- Concerned neighbors or others have expressed concern over the welfare of your aging loved one.
- Your aging loved one does not have access to a community, family, or any other supportive relationships that are within close proximity of them.
- Sudden changes in mood or aggressive outbursts that are otherwise uncharacteristic of your aging loved one.
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What to look out for when choosing an assisted living facility?
1. Services that are available: Assisted living facility residents have a wide variety of needs. See if the facility offers the services you need, whether that’s a specialized diet, exercise programs, or medication administration at a specific time each day. Likewise, consider whether amenities like in-house hair salons, tennis courts, and pools are important to you. To help narrow your options, create a list of “needs” and a list of “wants.” The right community will check off all of your needs and a few of your wants.
2. Costs that will be incurred: One of the most critical factors in your research will be planning your budget and working out how you best cover your costs. Some facilities may require upfront payment, monthly rent, or payments for individual services. Some may accept Medicaid, but they might limit the number of Medicaid residents they take or the length of time certain services are covered. It’s essential to know your monthly budget and only consider and compare assisted living facilities that fall within your price range.
3. Location of the facility: A good site helps assisted living residents to stay connected to their more significant communities. If your loved one’s mobility or travel capabilities are limited, choosing a facility within proximity to family or friends may be best. There are also state regulations to consider, as some facilities provide medical assistance based on where you reside. If you require significant medical care, check to make sure it’s available at assisted living facilities in your state.
4. Accommodations for loved ones: The style, size, and quality of a living space go a long way toward your aging loved one’s overall comfort. Assisted living communities may offer semi-private rooms, private rooms, or even complete apartments. Do research online beforehand to get an idea of what living areas look like by browsing pictures, or ask one of our Senior Referral Specialists for a scheduled tour to see the facilities 9in person. This should help you get a feel for both the privacy, comfort level, and overall suitability for your aging loved one’s needs.
5. Sense of community: Assisted living facilities offer a strong sense of community and culture for residents. This is done through social engagements with other residents and wellness activities or events. To get a feel for the community, check out its weekly activity schedule, clubs, or facilities dedicated to arts, exercise, and other fun pursuits. In addition, we strongly recommend visiting the facility in person, joining for a meal, or even walking the grounds and engaging as many other residents as possible to see if a community is suited to your loved one’s demeanor.
6. Medical attention and certification: Most assisted living facilities should have registered nurses on call 24/7. They might also have medical aides, attendants, and other medical staff, including certified nursing assistants, licensed practical nurses, and medical directors. Be sure to inquire about this if you’re feeling unsure or have a list of questions ready to tour the facility.
What are the benefits of an assisted living facility?
- Hands-on assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs)
- Care that is personalized
- Improved safety, security, and peace of mind
- Ease of access to healthcare facilities and skilled medical staff
- Improved independence
- An increase in social interaction and participation in more physical activities and events
- Improved comfort in a setting that feels like home, with like-minded individuals
- Decreased stress and worry on the part of the family or loved ones