Assisted Living facilities often get confused with nursing homes or retirement communities. However, assisted living communities are an entirely unique solution to helping the elderly enjoy every day. Check out these top facts many do not know about assisted living.
Assisted Living Communities Are Not Nursing Homes
Sometimes “assisted living” and “nursing home” are used interchangeably. Yet, this is not accurate. Nursing homes are meant for the elderly that require a higher level of care from a staff of trained nurses. Assisted living, on the other hand, generally focuses on seniors that remain independent, but may need some help with certain tasks like cooking, home upkeep, and taking medication.
Bring on the Four-Legged Friends
Just as your loved ones in assisted living are a part of your life, pets are a part of theirs! Most modern assisted living communities allow pets as well. However, it is important to check the details of each location as pet policies vary from facility to facility. Breed and weight restrictions often apply.
Levels of Service Vary
There is no universal scale for the level of service each assisted living community provides. As such, care varies from location to location. Some places may offer lighter services such as check-ins and cleaning, while others offer care to bedridden or wheelchair-bound seniors. It is therefore essential to do the research and make sure the level of care in the facility is right for your loved one. An in-person visit and tour may be best while evaluating this.
Each Community Is Diverse and Engaging
Like neighborhoods, each assisted living community has its own flavor. Some may focus on offering a wide selection of activities, while others may focus on faith-based living. There are assisted living communities for every type of activity, religion, and even sexual orientation. Bring your loved one to each community to find an assisted living environment that appeals to their personality.
Couples Can Stay Together
Often the required level of assistance for each person varies. The good news is that most communities work hard to accommodate couples. Talk to the facility in detail about what each individual needs in order to find the place that works best for both people. Staying together will also help smooth the transition to an assisted living environment.
Though sometimes assisted living can be confused with a retirement home, they are very different. Assisted living communities offer unique environments that can be the perfect fit for your loved one.