For retirees and older adults, you may have heard the term ‘assisted living’ – but what, exactly, does it mean and how does it compare to other types of senior living?
Everyone wants to remain living at home for as long as possible, but the reality is that, as we age, our physical and mental capabilities change, and we could require assistance with daily activities. There are several types of senior living communities available, from independent living to skilled nursing care.
But what about assisted living?
In this blog, we’ll explore what assisted living is and how it can benefit seniors who need a bit of extra support. We’ll also compare assisted living communities, like Martin Boyd Christian Home, to other types of senior living, so you can make an informed decision when researching different communities for yourself or a loved one. Let’s dive in and learn more about what assisted living has to offer!
What is Assisted Living?
Prior to the 1990s, aging seniors had very limited options for care: age in place at home or enter a skilled care facility. Assisted living communities were created for those seniors who wanted to maintain their independence, but needed a little help with activities of daily living. A welcome alternative to nursing homes, assisted living has become a very popular option for many older adults.
The goal of assisted living is to provide residents with the services they need to remain as self-reliant as possible and live in a safe, comfortable environment.
Some assisted living facilities, including Martin Boyd Christian Home, offer specialized services for people with specific needs such as Alzheimer’s disease or stroke recovery. Other facilities provide a wide range of services that include medical care, social work assistance and transportation. Today’s assisted living communities have evolved to include such amenities as:
● restaurant-style dining
● weekly trips and outings
● social activities
● Medication management
● in-house therapy and other medical services.
How Does Assisted Living DIffer from Other Types of Senior Care?
When it comes to senior adults, there are many different levels of care–and it’s important to note the differences between them when you’re in the research phase.
The most acute level of care for seniors is skilled nursing care. Skilled nursing care is a level of care that provides medical and rehabilitative services for patients who are recovering from an illness or injury. Skilled nursing facilities offer 24-hour professional supervision to help with activities of daily living, including diet and medication management.
Assisted living is for those seniors who need assistance with daily tasks but do not require medical or rehabilitative care. They provide residents with assistance with such tasks as bathing, dressing, cooking, housekeeping, and medication management.
Independent living offers residents a safe environment surrounded by peers with minimal assistance by the staff of the community.
When is it Time to Consider an Assisted Living Community
Growing older is inevitable. We all want to remain as independent as possible for as long as possible–but the question remains: when should you consider making the move to an assisted living community?
Here are some signs to look out for:
● Difficulty managing everyday tasks such as bathing, dressing, or cooking
● Mobility issues
● Memory problems
● Feelings of loneliness or isolation from friends and family
● Family caregivers becoming overwhelmed or unable to provide necessary care.
By recognizing these signs, individuals and their families can ensure a smooth transition to an assisted living community and provide the necessary support for a fulfilling and comfortable lifestyle.
Conclusion
As the Baby Boomer generation continues to age, senior living communities are becoming more important than ever before for those looking to maintain their independence. With the help of assisted living communities, seniors can remain safe and independent while living a maintenance-free lifestyle. Martin Boyd Christian Home would love to talk with you about your assisted living needs. Call us today at 423-892-1020 to schedule a tour!