Nursing and Assisted Living: Is Assisted Living Right for You?
By Michele Blandino
As the working generation moves from city to city in search of career advancement (or job stability), more and more senior citizens are finding themselves going it alone. Without family members to assist with tasks such as shopping and home maintenance, many find it increasingly difficult to retain their independence. Reluctant (or simply unable) to move in with their children, these seniors are turning to assisting living facilities.
What is Assisted Living?
An assisted living facility is a living arrangement for senior citizens who are largely able to care for themselves, but who may require some help with daily functions such as eating, walking or personal hygiene. In fact, many people find it more economical to move into an assisted living facility than to pay for in-home assistance.
Unlike most nursing homes, residents of an assisted living facility are free to leave the property to visit friends, go shopping or attend worship services. In fact, it is not unusual for a resident of an assisted living facility to own their own car.
Persons requiring constant supervision or nursing care are typically not suitable candidates for an assisted living arrangement.
Types of Assisted Living Arrangements
Assisted living arrangements run the gamut from double occupancy rooms to apartments and suites. The type of arrangement you choose will depend largely on your abilities and your finances. If you are choosing assisted living as a means of eliminating the need to maintain your home or if you are alone and looking for more social interaction, then perhaps an apartment or suite is right for you. In this manner, you still can maintain your independence and privacy while nurturing your need for a social life. But, as would be expected, an apartment or suite will be pricier than a private or semi-private room.
If, on the other hand, you need some help with tasks such as bathing, feeding or walking, but do not need constant supervision, a less independent arrangement will probably be best.
Most assisted living arrangements include meals, housekeeping, structured activities and the services of an on-site nurse. Services such as laundry, assistance with bathing or grooming and transportation may also be included with the monthly fee or be available at an extra cost.
What to Look For
As would be expected, choosing the right assisted living facility requires plenty of research. Obviously, cleanliness is a high priority for many people. Likewise, ease of accessibility for those in wheelchairs or walkers is also important. A kind and attentive staff will also help make the experience as pleasant as possible. As you tour the facility, take note of the staff’s interaction with the residents. Do they greet the residents by name as they pass?
As you tour the different residences, you should also pay particular attention to the residents. Do they appear to be happy and occupied? Ask to see a copy of the monthly activity schedule. Are there activities that interest you?
Many facilities will allow you to stay overnight so that you can fully experience resident life. Consider doing this and as you do, ask yourself if you can envision yourself living there.