When most people think of assisted living, they think of nursing homes. And while nursing homes certainly offer a wide range of care and services, they’re not the only option for seniors who need help with their day-to-day lives. Assisted living facilities provide a much more affordable and less restrictive alternative to nursing homes, while still offering residents access to all the necessary assistance and care they need to live comfortably. Here are eight things you need to know before moving into an assisted living facility.
1. What is assisted living and what services does it offer?
Assisted living is a type of community that offers the elderly housing and care options to give them the assistance they need with daily activities to remain active and live comfortably. It is specifically designed for seniors who may not require full-time nursing home care, but still need some help with their daily lives. Services typically offered at assisted living communities include help with activities of daily living (such as bathing, dressing, and eating), medication management, meal services, housekeeping, laundry services, transportation coordination, and social activities.
2. What is the cost of assisted living?
Cost is an important factor when choosing the right community. The cost of assisted living varies greatly depending on the facility you choose and the level of care needed. Location, on-site amenities, services, and more also factor into the cost of assisted living.
3. Who is eligible to live in an assisted living facility?
Eligibility for assisted living communities is based on the individual care requirements of the potential resident. Generally, assisted living is considered appropriate for individuals who need assistance with everyday tasks such as eating, bathing, dressing, etc., medication reminders and management, healthcare management and monitoring, and have a need for social and recreational activities.
4. How can I find an assisted living facility near me?
There are a number of ways to locate assisted living facilities in your area. The most common way is to do an online search, or you can ask for recommendations from friends, family members, and healthcare professionals. Many local governments also offer resources and referrals for assisted living centers near you.
5. What should I look for when evaluating assisted living facilities?
Choosing an assisted living community can be difficult. It is important to assess your needs so you can determine the right community. Consider the quality of care, types of services offered, cost and payment options, staff qualifications and experience, safety features and security measures in place, and the overall atmosphere of the facility. Take tours of facilities you are considering. You should make sure that the facility is able to meet all your needs before making a decision.
6. How to pay for assisted living?
Most families use private funds to cover the cost of assisted living. However, long term care insurance, private health insurance, Medicaid, Medicare, and VA benefits may also support some or all of the costs associated with assisted living.
7. Are there any special considerations for seniors with disabilities?
Yes, some assisted living facilities have programs specifically designed to serve seniors with disabilities. These facilities may offer special services and accommodations that are tailored to the needs of their disabled residents.
8. What types of activities and services are offered at assisted living facilities?
Assisted living facilities typically offer a variety of activities and services to help keep their residents active and engaged. These may include educational classes, social gatherings, exercise programs, spiritual services, outdoor recreation opportunities, crafts and hobbies, field trips, music therapy, and more.
Assisted living is a great option for seniors and helps them manage activities of daily living including bathing, dressing, mobility, personal grooming and more. Assisted living communities offer seniors a safe place to live where they are able to receive the care and services they need. With knowledge of the important factors involved in choosing an assisted living facility you can ensure you find the right place to call home.