Serving as a caretaker for an aging loved one is a challenging and rewarding experience. You are able to spend so much quality time, but you are also tasked with finding things to make life easier for the elderly and with the responsibility for the health and safety of this person. When the time comes to discuss when a senior may no longer be able to live independently, it is often an emotional conversation for all involved. Luckily, there is a middle ground for seniors who require help with the activities of daily living, but who do not need 24-hour medical care.
Assisted living is the right solution for many families, and it may have benefits for your senior loved one. So, what are some features and benefits of an assisted living facility? And what are the advantages of assisted living?
Reasons for Assisted Living
You can find assisted living facilities all over the country. They are similar to nursing homes in that care is provided on-site 24/7; however, most assisted living residents do not require the same high level of care as nursing home patients. Similar to nursing homes, assisted living communities serve their residents for the long term, although the national average for patient stay in assisted living is three years. Residents traditionally have their own living space and are offered many opportunities for socialization and entertainment with neighbors.
If you think your loved one may be ready for assisted living, here are a few signs that it may be the right time:
- There are safety concerns in the home
- Your loved one is spending a great amount of time alone
- Managing health care issues is becoming more difficult
- You worry about your loved one’s diet and nutrition
- Accidents are happening more frequently
- Housework is neglected and/or hygiene is a concern
- Medical care is needed more often
- Personal care tasks are becoming more difficult
What are the Advantages of Assisted Living?
So, why move to assisted living? When asking this question, it helps to understand what your loved one will have access to in an assisted living community. Here are a few of the advantages of assisted living:
Social Time. Many seniors become isolated, lonely and bored in their golden years. Spending too many hours alone can be dangerous for seniors and can lead to declining health and depression. Assisted living communities, like Lamar Court Assisted Living Community, dedicate numerous resources to offering socialization opportunities. From the courtyards to the common areas, the beauty salons to the dining halls, Lamar Court built its community to provide comfortable ways for seniors to share time with friends and family.
Help with Activities of Daily Living. For communities like Lamar Court and Mission Chateau Senior Living Community, safety is of utmost importance. We work to give our residents the independence they need, while offering the right amount of support to keep them safe.
Healthy, Delicious Meals. If you live alone, cooking can be a challenge. However, if you do not eat a healthy diet, there can be health consequences. Assisted living communities, like St. Paul’s Senior Community, provide delicious meals and adapt to the dietary needs of each resident.
Ability to Stay Active. It is vitally important for seniors to remain active. In assisted living communities, seniors have access to activities ranging from gardening to games and from yoga to water aerobics. Because activities like these are available on-site, residents can easily participate on their own schedule.
Peace of Mind. As family members, you know your loved one is in a safe environment. You can rest easy knowing your loved one has reminders to take her medication or is receiving the meals needed to keep him strong. Assisted living also removes the stress of housework, yard work and paying monthly bills.
Combining Health and Home
In addition to keeping a focus on your loved one’s social schedule and nutritional needs, the teams at Lamar Court, St. Paul’s and Mission Chateau each provide hospitality and health care services, including:
- Housekeeping and linen service
- Daily fitness programs
- Emergency response
- Scheduled transportation to appointments
- Medication management
- Interior and exterior maintenance
- Health education sessions
- Mobility assistance
At Tutera Senior Living and Health Care, we understand the incredible trust it requires to allow us to care for your loved ones. Our assisted living communities at Lamar Court, St. Paul’s and Mission Chateau each are designed to help your loved one retain their independence while living with the support and safety they need.
Contact Tutera Senior Living and Health Care today to learn more about our communities, our culture and our care!
