Since most of the population will eventually require some form of assisted living, it is important to debunk any myths about assisted living as soon as possible. There are so many outdated and incorrect assumptions about assisted living, and it is not that we need to set the record straight! These five myths about assisted living will hopefully help you develop a more accurate picture of what it is like to live in this type of community and how it can benefit you and your loved ones.
Myth One: Assisted Living Communities Are Only for People Who Need Help
One of the myths about assisted living is that you must be immobile, almost bedridden, in order to live there. The truth is that many loved ones are able to live independently at home but would like some help with tasks like laundry, grocery shopping, or housecleaning. Assisted living communities offer around-the-clock supervision by trained staff so family members can remain independent but have access to care if they need it. A person who might benefit from assisted living is one who lives alone and does not have any close family nearby. It may also be a good option for someone who wants to stay in their own home but needs help with tasks that are too difficult or dangerous for them to do alone, such as paying bills or preparing meals.
Myth Two: Seniors Can Live Independently and Do Not Require Assisted Living
Loved ones who need help with day-to-day activities should consider an assisted living community. The truth is, there are many reasons why loved ones might move into assisted living. Their health may have changed suddenly due to injury or illness; they may be overwhelmed by responsibilities like caring for a spouse or need extra support to stay safe at home. Assisted living communities offer caregiving services like 24/7 live-in supervision and meals prepared by chefs to ensure the residents get all of their daily tasks done without needing outside help.
Myth Three: Residents In Assisted Living Communities May Feel Bored and Frustrated Because They Are Not Able to Engage with the World Around Them
This is a big myth in assisted living. Many residents in assisted living participate in daily activities, including arts and crafts, sing-alongs, games, day trips to local sites of interest, and much more. Assisted living communities are filled with things to do during your retirement years. Consider that an average nursing home resident gets out of bed less than six times per day for fewer than 15 minutes each time. It is impossible to maintain mental sharpness when you spend almost all your time sitting or lying down.
Myth Four: Assisted Living Communities Are Not Home-Like
While assisted living is designed for family members who need some assistance, they do not resemble institutions. This type of living space is more like independent-living apartments than nursing homes. Family members here still have plenty of freedom to do what they want—including having visitors whenever they want them. The idea is that loved ones live their lives just as they did when they were in their own homes, only with help on an as-needed basis.
Myth Five: Living In an Assisted Living Community Is Too Expensive
To make sure you can afford assisted living when it is time, start with an honest look at your finances. Calculate how much money you have in savings and retirement accounts; estimate how much income you will receive each month (Social Security payments, pension checks, etc.); and determine how much money your spouse or partner might earn. That will help you know what level of care is affordable for your situation.
