Assisted living can be a great option for seniors who still wish to maintain some of their independence. It offers a home-like environment where residents can still enjoy their hobbies. Additionally, assisted living facilities offer many life enrichment activities. When choosing an assisted living facility, there are many factors to consider.
Assisted living is an option
It is a big decision to choose an assisted living facility. It's not just about the cost. Many factors play a part in your decision. Assisted living is often covered by long-term care insurance, although Medicare doesn't cover the cost. Medicaid, a federal/state health program for people with low assets and incomes, could cover the cost.
Assisted living is an option for seniors who cannot live independently or require assistance with daily tasks. Residents of assisted living communities can remain independent and socialize with others while receiving assistance in areas where they need it. One of my clients who used to be a caretaker struggled with healthy cooking at home. She also felt isolated from other people. Her new environment provided a dining space with other residents which allowed her to maintain a sense community and independence.
It allows seniors to remain independent.
For people who are unable to do their daily tasks but want to retain their independence, assisted living may be an option. This can help people retain their identity and dignity which will improve their quality of living. This type of living also offers the added benefit of a community of like-minded senior citizens.
A monthly fee is usually charged for assisted living. This covers maintenance, security, housekeeping, and nursing observation. It includes three meals daily and 24-hour supervision. A majority of assisted living facilities provide one to two hours per day of personal care. This can include assistance with dressing, toileting, and bathing. A few facilities even offer subsidized services that can help seniors cover the monthly cost.
It provides life enrichment activities
Residents of assisted living communities may find life enrichment activities a huge benefit. Seniors can enjoy a better quality of life by attending to their physical, mental, cognitive and spiritual needs. These activities are person-centered. They can be tailored to meet the individual needs of each resident. A resident can participate in arts, music, and gardening to fulfill their interests. You can also learn new skills.
Although a traditional classroom environment can keep seniors mentally and physically active, assisted living communities offer much more than just classes. The life enrichment director can offer new programs and activities to residents who share common interests. For example, a resident may enjoy dancing.
It is more affordable than nursing homes
A recent survey by American Health Care Association found that assisted living is more affordable than nursing homes. A semi-private room in a nursing home can cost nearly $89,000 per year, whereas an assisted living room costs approximately $48,000 a year. Medicare covers some costs in both cases.
It is important that you remember that assisted living does NOT necessarily provide 24-hour nursing care. Hiring home health aides can get very expensive and not all assisted living communities are equipped to provide that level of care. It is also difficult to estimate costs because assisted living facilities are often private-pay models.