Life changes as you age, and you might notice this significantly with your parents. They care for you for many years, but you might have to care for them at some point.
Approximately 50% of older adults receive the extra care and assistance they need, but the other 50% don’t. Of course, you want to ensure your parent gets the care they need.
As a result, you might look into senior care options. Of all the options, assisted living is an ideal solution for many seniors. Before choosing it, consider the benefits of assisted living for seniors.
This information helps you make the right decision. Continue reading to learn more about senior care options and the benefits of assisted living.
What Is Assisted Living
Assisted living is one of several senior care options. It provides more freedom than nursing homes but more assistance than living alone. It’s also a step up from senior in-home care.
An assisted living community offers seniors a place to live where they can access assistance 24 hours a day. Yet, seniors in these communities have their own space, allowing them more freedom.
Many seniors use assisted living as a transitional move. They may move to an assisted living community when they need some help with daily living.
When they reach a point where they need more help, they may move to a nursing home. Nursing homes provide more care for seniors with chronic or severe health issues.
Benefits of Assisted Living for Seniors
Communities offering assisted living provide numerous benefits for seniors. Here are the primary ones:
Increased Independence
As mentioned, assisted living allows the residents to cling to their independence. The residents can decide how to spend their time and the types of assistance they request.
Access to Care and Support
While having freedom, seniors also feel safe, as people are around to help them. Assisted living provides the care and support each person needs. This aspect provides safety to the residents and gives them and their loved ones peace of mind.
Reduced Burden on Family Caregivers
Assisted living alleviates the work that family caregivers perform, freeing up the family’s time and reducing stress. This allows families to spend quality time together.
Opportunities for Socialization
One of the best perks is the socialization opportunities the residents have. They can engage with others regularly, helping them improve their quality of life.
The residents are encouraged to take part in group activities and events. They may have day trip opportunities, rides to doctor visits, and more.
Services Provided in Assisted Living
When considering assisted living, you should ask questions about what a community offers. Here are some of the most common services found in assisted living communities:
Personal Assistance
At assisted living, your loved one will have access to help for all their daily living activities.
This includes assistance with bathing, grooming, and personal hygiene. It also includes dressing and laundry services for the residents.
Meals and Medication
Your loved one will also receive all their meals. Assisted living communities provide residents with their dietary needs while following allergies and other food restrictions. In addition, they’ll receive healthy snacks in between.
You also won’t have to worry about your parents taking their medication. They will have staff that distributes all their medications at the appropriate times.
Social Activities
One important aspect of assisted living is social activities. Many residents move there to make friends and have things to do.
An assisted living community offers organized group activities and entertainment. The residents always have things to do, keeping them busy and their minds engaged.
Staying engaged with others helps seniors develop and keep a positive mindset, which is crucial for their health and well-being.
Choosing the Right Assisted Living Community
Choosing the right community is another vital factor in your decision. When searching, keep these factors in mind:
- Location: Look at proximity to your loved one’s family to ensure it’s conveniently located
- Amenities: Consider the top needs your parent has and find a community offering those
- Quality: Read the reviews and visit the center to find high-quality care
- Costs: Evaluate the costs of a community and the options for paying the bill
- Services: Look for a place offering the services your parent needs
Take your time when reviewing your options for senior care living. Compare assisted living versus nursing home care, and learn more about how assisted living aids in senior health before choosing.
Make notes as you tour communities and examine various aspects. For example, consider how the staff communicates with the residents. Are they thoughtful, empathetic, and kind?
Transitioning to Assisted Living
Regardless of the senior living option you choose, helping your parents transition is always vital. You can do several things to help your parents with this task.
First, talk to your parents to get their input. Ask them what they want to do and invite them to tour the communities. Make sure you include them in the decisions.
Let them help you decide what the best option is. Feeling included will ease their worries about moving.
Secondly, bring some personal things to the community when moving them into their room. For example, bring photo books and family pictures to hang on the walls. You can personalize their room, making it feel more like home.
Finally, spend time with your parent there. Visit them regularly and stay involved. Call them on the phone to talk often and do things that help them feel loved.
Explore Assisted Living for Your Parents
Assisted living has many benefits for seniors, and it’s the right choice for many. Of course, you should do your due diligence and review and research a community before choosing one.
Are you looking for a great community in the Deerwood or Jacksonville area? Look no further.
Discovery Village at Deerwood offers several levels of senior living, allowing you to choose the best path. We provide the top amenities seniors want and need with a caring staff 24/7.
Reach out to learn more, or contact us to schedule a tour today!
