As you get older and aging takes its toll; it can become more challenging to take care of your daily activities alone. From maintaining your home to taking care of your personal needs, you might find it hard to manage on your own. At this point, you may consider looking into assisted living facilities.
However, with several assisted living options available, knowing which one is right for you can be confusing.
Read on to learn more about when to consider assisted living.
What is assisted living?
Assisted living is a care option for seniors that combines the best of both worlds: it includes the comfort and security of home with the guidance and help of professional staff.
Assisted living communities offer companionship and help with daily tasks like dressing, bathing, and medication management.
Other options, such as dietary counseling or custodial services, are available at an extra fee.
Tips to consider when thinking about assisted living.
If you’re thinking about assisted living, there are many things to consider, including the type of care you need and how much help you want.
Here are some tips to help you make the best decision for your loved one:
- Level of care your loved one may need. Assisted living facilities offer a range of care options, from basic assistance with activities of daily living to more comprehensive care. Ensure your choice caters to your loved one’s needs.
- Location of the facility. Many facilities are located in retirement communities, but some people prefer to live closer to family or in more urban areas. Select a facility that will make your loved one enjoy the transition.
- Cost of assisted living. Most facilities charge a monthly fee, depending on the level of care and the location. Be sure to ask about any extra fees, such as for activities or transportation, and whether there are any discounts available.
What to expect when moving into assisted living.
When you move into an assisted living community, you’ll be leaving behind some of the things you may have enjoyed doing on your own.
Here are some things to expect when moving into assisted living facilities:
- You will have a roommate, even if you prefer your own space. You may have a private bedroom with a shared bathroom, or you could share a bedroom with other people in the same building.
- You will attend social events in your community, such as movies, parties, and special holiday celebrations. These events bring residents together and help them form connections while enjoying fun activities such as bingo or card games.
- You will have access to many amenities, including transportation, housekeeping services, and laundry services; all you have to do is enjoy life!
Tips to make the move to assisted living smoother.
If you are planning to move into an assisted living facility, here are some tips that will help make the transition smoother:
- Get organized. Before moving, make sure your important documents are in order and accessible.
- Plan for the change at home. If children or pets will be staying with family members or friends while you are away, talk with them about how they may feel when they visit you.
- Get familiar with your new home before moving day so that you won’t feel as overwhelmed by all the changes at once when it comes time to move.
- Make sure all your belongings are packed and ready to go by moving day so there aren’t any last-minute surprises on moving day itself!
Final Thoughts:
Assisted living communities are an excellent option for seniors who need some help with daily activities.
The decision to move into an assisted living facility needs to be carefully considered. The decision should not be taken lightly and should be made after you have weighed all the pros and cons of the situation.
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