July 7, 2023  -  Independent Living

Pros & Cons of Assisted Living

As people age, they may need more help with daily tasks such as dressing, preparing meals, and managing medications. Assisted living can be an excellent choice for seniors who cannot complete these activities independently.

Assisted living communities offer residents a combination of independence, socialization, and support, helping them maintain their quality of life while also receiving the care they need.

However, as with any significant decision, it’s essential to carefully consider the features of assisted living before making a final choice. 

Let’s look at the advantages your loved one could gain when moving into an assisted living community and the misconceptions they may have. Understanding the concerns they may have about the transition can help you make an educated choice that promotes their physical, emotional, and social well-being.

The Pros of Assisted Living

A holistic approach to assisted living can provide various benefits for seniors who need some degree of assistance in their daily lives.

Sense of Community

One of the most significant advantages of assisted living is the sense of community it offers. Seniors in assisted living communities can:

• Meet and interact with other residents
• Engage in group activities
• Form meaningful connections with others

This can help fight feelings of loneliness and social isolation, which can harm physical and mental health.

Professional Support

Another benefit of assisted living is the professional assistance provided to residents. Trained staff members are on hand 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, to help with activities of daily living (ADLs), medication management, and other healthcare requirements.

This can be especially helpful for seniors who need assistance with bathing, dressing, and grooming and those who need help managing chronic conditions like diabetes or heart disease.

Access to Amenities

A variety of amenities, such as exercise centers, movie theaters, and libraries, are available in many assisted living communities. These tools can help seniors remain active and engaged while promoting their overall health.

Exercise programs, for example, can help seniors maintain strength and flexibility, whereas social activities can improve cognitive function and emotional well-being.

Peace of Mind

Knowing that their loved ones are getting expert care and support can provide peace of mind for family members of seniors living in assisted living. This can make everyone involved feel less stressed and anxious.

Furthermore, many assisted living communities provide security features such as 24-hour surveillance and emergency call systems, which can help residents feel more protected and secure.

Understanding Misconceptions

Adapting to a new lifestyle in an assisted living community can sometimes be difficult for your loved one. They may even have misconceptions about senior living that could affect their willingness to move into a new community.

Understanding and addressing their concerns about the transition can help you shift their expectations and help them open up to possibilities and growth opportunities in their new living situation.

Independence

Many seniors worry about retaining their autonomy and independence when moving into an assisted living community. 

Moving away from home can force them to give up their car, downsize their living area, or follow an established meal and activity schedule.

Change is always difficult, but assisted living can give your loved one the balance of care and community they need. Private living spaces can give them the control they need to feel comfortable in their new home.

New Surroundings & People

Getting used to new surroundings and people can take time. Your loved one may be concerned about their ability to maintain old friendships and develop new ones in their new environment. 

Seniors may also feel they need control over their living space and may be reluctant to invite visitors or participate in activities they would do at home.

However, many assisted living communities provide spaces and common areas where residents can socialize and welcome visitors. Community events and activities can also help your loved one meet new people.

Costs

Financial worries are front and center for many American families, so the cost of an assisted living community may be one of the key questions you or your loved one may have. 

However, there are many options to help you afford the care and services you’re looking for, including:

• Veterans Aid & Attendance benefit: This program provides a non-service-connected pension to assist in paying for long-term care for wartime veterans or surviving spouses with limited income. 
• Family Assets: Families can review their financial assets, like savings, stocks, bonds, and investments. If you or your loved one is selling a home, that money can help pay for the next living arrangement. 
• Long-Term Care Insurance: Some insurance policies can help cover costs of long-term support for services assisting with activities of daily living. 

The monthly cost of your community covers all of the essential services your loved one has access to for one price, including rent and utilities, dining, maintenance, housekeeping, transportation, social activities and wellness programs, outings, amenities, fitness and exercise opportunities, and socializing opportunities. 

Assisted Living at Peregrine Senior Living

Seniors who live in assisted living can benefit from a feeling of community, professional support, access to amenities, and peace of mind for family members. However, the potential drawbacks must also be considered. 

The choice to move to an assisted living community should be based on the needs, preferences, and financial situation of the particular senior. Before making a final choice, families should conduct research, tour numerous communities, ask questions, and consult with healthcare professionals.

Seniors and their families can make an educated decision that helps support their physical, emotional, and social well-being by carefully weighing the benefits and drawbacks.

Schedule a visit at Peregrine Senior Living to learn more about our holistic senior living options.