Living Assisted

Assisted living facilities offer senior home care for the elderly who are primarily independent but may need some help from a caregiver or home health service. As a baby and young child, we are taken care of and get the assistance of mom and dad while learning new things. Then we live life and finally come to the time when we need help again. As we become seniors, things that we could do before might not be as easy to do, so we need to have some living assistance. Could the assistance we need mean that we need to move to an assisted living facility or can we still live at home? The answer definitely depends on health related issues and what kind of health care we will need. Living assisted is a wonderful option for elderly care. An offering of a whole new lifestyle can be very appealing.

Assisted living facilities are a fairly new concept. In the past, nursing homes were about the only option for the elderly who couldn't live by themselves but weren't ready to stop living and enjoying life. This community-based idea where seniors can live and be taken care of at the same time is excellent. Seniors are able to be independent as possible and yet have the help they need right there. Personal plans for residents in the facility include personal assistance service which among other things, is help in grooming, bathing, and dressing. Usually three well-balanced meals are offered, including snacks, laundry and housekeeping service, and a variety of social activities both within the facility and out. Social and educational programs are also offered for families of residents. Of course, each assisted living community is different, but generally most offer the same services. A registered nurse and a well-trained staff are available to work with residents and answer any questions. That is peace of mind for family members leaving a loved one in the care of a new home.

Living here really is just like a community. Styles of housing can be from dormitory style to a beautiful two bedroom apartment style. Most assisted living facilities have beautiful landscaped lawns that are well maintained. Residents can meet together, doing the various activities offered, or maybe just have a cup of coffee and chat. Residents can quickly make new friends, making the transition from leaving a familiar home to a new one a little easier.

Of course, places like these are not designed for persons with serious health issues and medical needs. A facility with an alzheimer's unit or skilled nursing staff may be needed instead. Health care needs always should be considered when choosing a home and also consider if insurance, medicaid, or medicare pay for any services in these communities.

When the time comes, and it most likely will, a decision needs to be made about your future. Considering an assisted living community may be a viable option because it covers all areas of living that are needed. Privacy, personal assistance, social and learning activities, transportation, housekeeping, home-cooked meals, a beautiful home and friends all in one safe place.