by Lilit Kurghinyan
For some, "assisted living" doesn't evoke a lot of positive images. You might think of cramped quarters, institutional food, and nurses who are more concerned with numbers than people.
But assisted living doesn't have to be that way! In fact, assisted living can provide elders with a much-needed sense of community, socialization, and independence.
So what’s assisted living, and how can it change elders' lives for the better? Keep reading to find out!
An Overview of Assisted Living
At its most basic, assisted living is a type of long-term care that helps people with activities of daily living (ADLs) such as bathing, dressing, and using the restroom.
Assisted living is designed for people who need more help than what can be provided at home but who don't require the around-the-clock medical care of a nursing home.
Assisted living communities typically provide elders with their own private or semi-private living quarters, as well as access to common areas and amenities like laundry facilities, kitchens, and recreation rooms.
Most assisted living communities also offer some level of care and assistance with ADLs, which can range from occasional help to more comprehensive services.
There are many different assisted living communities, and you can easily find information about them online.
For instance, if you're looking for assisted living in Norwood, a quick online search will reveal plenty of communities to choose from.
How Can Assisted Living Change Elders' Lives?
For many elders, assisted living can be a true lifesaver. It can provide them with the level of care and assistance they need to remain independent and safe while also giving them opportunities to socialize and engage in activities they enjoy.
Here are three of the ways assisted living can change elders' lives for the better:
Increased sense of community and socialization
In assisted living communities, elders have the opportunity to interact with their peers on a daily basis.
This may help reduce feelings of loneliness and isolation and provide much-needed socialization.
Opportunities to engage in activities they enjoy
Most assisted living communities offer various recreational and social activities for residents to enjoy.
This can give elders a chance to stay active and maintain their independence.
Access to care and assistance when needed
For elders who need help with ADLs, assisted living can provide the level of care they need to remain safe and independent.
This can help ease the burden on family members and give elders the peace of mind knowing that they’ll always have the help they need.
Find the Right Assisted Living Facility For Your Needs
While assisted living certainly isn't for everyone, it can be an incredible resource for elders who need a little help but want to stay in their own homes.
With the right community and support system in place, assisted living can provide elders with the independence and dignity they desire while also giving them access to the care they need.
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