The ABC of Assisted Living

We all know that there are various options for residential living for elders, with assisted living being one of it. Assisted living is a residential option for elders who need help in the daily activities like cooking meals, going to the bathroom in the middle of the night, keeping house and travelling for appointments.

Also known as residential care, board and care, congregate care, adult care home, adult group home, alternate care facility and sheltered housing, assisted living is a good choice for those elders that need more personal care services than what is available at home or in an independent living retirement community, but who do not require 24/7 medical care and supervision of a nursing home.

Offering safety and security round the clock, you can easily call when an elder is in need of help. A good assisted living facility would develop a    personalized plan that meets the elder’s needs and accommodates their disabilities, while giving them the freedom to do what they can for themselves. While some would have apartment-style living with scaled down kitchens, others provide rooms. If you are not willing to pay a high price you may have to share a room. Most popular in US, some states may have specific licensing requirements; it is best you check up on this aspect.  

Some of the services that elders can get in a typical assisted living facility are:

• 3 meals a day that is served in the common dining area.

• Housekeeping services.

• Assistance is provided with walking, going to the bathroom, dressing, bathing and eating.

• Transportation.

• Emergency call systems in each resident’s living space.

• Access to health and medical services.

• 24/7 security.

• Medication management.

• Exercise and wellness programs.

• Laundry services and

• Recreational and social activities.

 
Staffs are available to help with scheduled needs, as well as unexpected issues.

Is an assisted living facility right for you?

 
Think over if you need more help from family and friends and are the activities of daily living overwhelming and stressful. Then assisted living could be the right option for you.

Next think over if you are feeling lonely and isolated; social life is vital for health and happiness and loneliness could lead to depression. One of the hugest benefits of assisted living is the social aspect; these facilities offer a range of social and recreational activities, with the community aspect giving an opportunity to make new friends.

Assisted living facility is a good option for you if you are tired of responsibilities of maintaining a home. These facilities can provide a home-like atmosphere, without the work of cooking, cleaning, shopping for groceries, and doing laundry.

Assisted living facility is an ideal option if you are worried about your safety, mobility and are afraid of what would happen to you if you fell and could not get up. You could get help whenever needed.

Transportation would not be an issue if you opt for assisted living facility; it is the best option where you cannot drive and depend on public transport. They offer transportation facilities so you can get where you need to go without having to rely on friends and family.

To conclude, this article is just a basic of assisted living facility. You will soon be getting more to read on this topic in some of my future articles.

Image Courtesy: Google