As the years go by, most of us find that it becomes difficult to embrace even small changes to our way of living. It’s easy to understand why older adults are reluctant to think about leaving a home they may have lived in for decades — even when they know it’s no longer the safest place for them to be.
The house may have become more than they can maintain. Declining health may be limiting their ability to care for themselves. They may now have fewer meaningful interactions with others. Even if they haven’t expressed it, they may also be worried about their physical safety, especially if they live alone.
All of these scenarios may be true, and still, they struggle on.
KNOWLEDGE CAN CLEAR UP MISCONCEPTIONS
Older adults may hesitate to seriously consider moving for a variety of reasons. These are some of the most common:
- They might have an outdated idea of what assisted living communities are like. Maybe they remember visiting their parents or grandparents in a nursing home half a century ago (or longer) and believe they would be moving into a similar kind of place.
- They may be concerned that friends and family will forget about them after they move, and they’ll be stuck in a place they won’t like.
- They may believe they’ll have to give up their privacy and personal freedom.
- They may worry about what will happen to a beloved pet if they move. (Many assisted living communities permit and even encourage new residents to bring their pets with them.)
- They may think they won’t fit in with the other residents, or they may fear being judged.
Careful research, along with a few visits to assisted living communities, can address many of the most common reasons older adults have for not wanting to move. Once they discover how vibrant assisted living communities are today and all the advantages that living in the right community can offer, many seniors find themselves looking forward to changing their circumstances.
Best of all, once they’ve settled in, most new assisted living residents aren’t just happier — they thrive.
HOW ASSISTED LIVING HELPS OLDER ADULTS FEEL, AND BE, MORE INDEPENDENT
Moving into an assisted living community doesn’t mean seniors have to sacrifice control over how they live. In fact, quite the opposite is true. Assisted living gives them the opportunity to focus on doing what they enjoy — without worrying about tasks that may have become difficult to manage.
The following are six ways assisted living can make it easier for seniors to enjoy greater independence (and a better quality of life) than they would living on their own.
- More diverse activities, in and out of the community
Assisted living communities know how important it is for residents to stay active mentally, physically and socially, so they offer a variety of classes, activities and group outings to give everyone ample choices in how they spend their time. Residents can expand their interests and rediscover the fun of pastimes they’d set aside when life became too busy.Staff can help those who rely on assistive devices get to and from all activities, and transportation is provided for group activities outside of the community. (Transportation is also typically available for medical appointments and for scheduled trips to local stores.)
- Daily opportunities to socialize and form new friendships
Seniors who live alone may feel lonely and isolated, which can increase their risk of developing mental and physical health issues — from depression and anxiety to heart disease, diabetes and dementia.Being in an assisted living community makes it much easier to meet new people, whether it’s through an invitation to join a group of neighbors for coffee or dinner, by attending a class or lecture with like-minded residents or simply saying hello in the hallway. Sometimes just knowing that others are close by and available provides comfort.
- Ready access to nutritious meals and options for exercise
Older adults have different nutritional needs, and many either have a decreased appetite or find it difficult to prepare their own meals. As a result, they’re at high risk of becoming malnourished.Assisted living usually provides two or three meals every day, along with healthy choices for snacks. In high-end communities, residents can enjoy chef-inspired cuisine that rivals fine dining restaurants. Many communities consult with a dietitian or nutritionist (or have one on staff) to ensure their menus meet residents’ dietary requirements and will gladly accommodate a range of special needs, such as gluten-free or low-sodium diets.
While the types of exercise classes and physical activities can vary substantially among assisted living communities, getting (or staying) in shape can be a lot more fun when participating with a group of one’s peers. Staff activities directors and fitness instructors know how to adapt exercises for residents with limited mobility or balance issues. The overarching goal is to keep everyone safe.
Those who want to stretch their legs or get some fresh air don’t have to wait for a scheduled activity. Chances are one or more of their neighbors will be happy to go for an impromptu walk.
- A clean home, without the drudgery of cleaning
Keeping up with the housework and laundry can become too physically demanding for some seniors. Assisted living communities provide regular light housekeeping and laundry services, ensuring that residents always have a clean, healthy living environment. - Built-in security
Older adults who live alone or with a similarly aged spouse might worry about a number of potential scenarios: What if I fall in the bathtub or shower and can’t get up? What if I have a heart attack or pass out and there’s nobody around to help me? What if someone breaks into my home while I’m sleeping or forces their way into my home when I answer the door?Nearly all assisted living communities have in-home response systems in place for residents to use if they’re experiencing a health emergency. Most communities also check on their residents every day or have a system for residents to indicate that everything is fine. Some communities provide a 24/7 security monitoring service for outside and common areas, such as parking lots, lobbies and hallways.
- Assistance with activities of daily living and other routine tasks
This is the hallmark of assisted living. Any number of physical ailments can make it difficult for seniors to take care of their own personal hygiene, get dressed, or get out of bed or a chair. Those experiencing memory problems may forget to take their prescribed medications, or forget they’ve already taken them and take another dose.Asking for help can be just as difficult. For some older adults, it might be a matter of pride. Others want to avoid being a burden to their friends and family.
Assisted living staff members are adept at providing residents with the help they need while also treating them with dignity and respect. And sometimes, simply being around others who also require assistance can help seniors feel less self-conscious.
ASSISTED LIVING CAN BRING THE JOY BACK TO DAILY LIFE
With the right level of support and assistance, older adults can focus on what they enjoy doing instead of what they’re unable to do. They can let go of frustration and worries, replacing them with peace of mind. They can feel safe, comfortable and ready to invite new experiences and new people into their lives.
To learn more about how your loved one could benefit from assisted living at The Vered, call 818.450.3120. We’ll set up a one-on-one appointment with a member of our Discovery Center team.