Several wrong beliefs about assisted living might make seniors and their families wary of even considering it. However, it is critical to dispel stereotypes and underline how these facilities may assist elders with duties while maintaining their freedom.
MYTH 1: The Food Is Barely Edible.
TRUTH: As the Baby Boomers enter senior living, assisted living facilities are adapting to suit the needs of a wider variety of clients. The dining options are more akin to those found in restaurants than buffet lines. You’ll find bars, sushi, and other fine dining options in some of the wealthier communities.
Seniors at assisted living facilities may choose from three different meals each day prepared by trained chefs who take pleasure in their job and like experimenting with new flavors. There’s also no need to worry that specific food needs will be overlooked in assisted living; staff can always meet a unique dietary plan. Assisted living residences are addressing senior tastes for good foods. The current nutritional demands of senior communities are always on the minds of assisted living homes.
MYTH 2: Seniors in Assisted Living Facilities Lose Their Autonomy and Independence.
TRUTH: Seniors in assisted living homes are urged to be as self-sufficient as possible. Residents in senior communities receive the help they require, yet they live on their own time and in their own way. Residents continue to enjoy full, active lives. Assisted living communities take pleasure in helping seniors feel as self-sufficient as possible. Because primary care is provided, seniors may feel at ease and plan their days according to their preferences.
Residents are encouraged to bring photographs and other minor objects to customize their environment since assisted living should feel as homey as possible. Because the rooms are already equipped, large furniture is not required. Most assisted living organizations provide a variety of units to select from, each with a distinct floor layout. Seniors can arrange and decorate their flats with their personal belongings. Seniors also have authority over the locks on their apartment doors, providing them with security and privacy.
Assisted living facilities urge their clients to be as self-sufficient as possible. Many people assume that seniors who live in assisted living facilities are no longer allowed to drive, but this is simply not true. A person is allowed to drive as long as they can do so without endangering himself or others.
MYTH 3: It’s Too Expensive to Live In an Assisted Living Facility.
TRUTH: When looking at the expense of assisted living, some seniors and their loved ones encounter high rates. However, many people are shocked by how reasonable their alternatives are after breaking down what those expenses cover and comparing them to the price of remaining at home. Assisted living is frequently the same price or less expensive than obtaining the same care and services at home. The average monthly cost of assisted living in the United States is $4,000, covering everything that many seniors require, such as housing, food, transport, activities, assistance with daily tasks, prescription management, and more.
Property taxes, separate utility expenses, and essential home health care are all gone when you move to assisted living. Also, the comfort they experience here at Parkdale, our Clinton Township senior living community, is difficult to quantify. After all, our residents have the confidence of having access to pleasant and highly trained personnel at all times.
Myth 4: Nursing Homes and Assisted Living Facilities Have the Same Roles and Services.
TRUTH: Many people consider “nursing home” to be a catch-all phrase for senior life. However, assisted living communities and nursing homes are two distinct types of senior living facilities that offer varying care degrees. A nursing home is a type of facility that offers professional care and rehabilitation services.
On the other hand, an assisted living facility’s goal is to provide accommodation and care to seniors who may require assistance with everyday chores such as dressing or housekeeping but do not require specialized nursing from medical specialists. Private apartments, 24/7 personnel to assist with ADLs, three meals a day, transportation, housekeeping, and laundry services are standard features of assisted living communities.
Nursing Homes
Nursing homes frequently contain rooms that resemble those seen in a hospital or clinical setting. Nursing homes provide the most significant degree of care and are meant for persons with substantial medical requirements who require assistance with medications and practically all of their daily living duties, such as eating, bathing, and getting in and out of bed.
Residents at nursing homes usually have individual or shared rooms and can get rehabilitative care on-site, including surgical and medical recovery. Nurses at skilled nursing institutions provide a wide range of services, from wound dressings to tube feedings, and they are trained to deal with quickly changing health conditions. Short-term skilled nursing care is offered to those who require rehabilitation but will not need long-term care.
Assisted Living Facility
Assisted living facilities help residents with everyday chores that are difficult or unsafe to undertake on their own, such as dressing and bathing. Meals, medication monitoring, housekeeping, and recreational activities are also offered at an assisted living facility. Some assisted living facilities also provide individualized medical and memory care services.
Myth 5: The Staff Exploits Seniors Who Reside in Assisted Living Facilities.
TRUTH: Staff and caregivers are often enthusiastic about making the residents happy. Caregivers work hard to assist elders with tasks professionally and courteously. Other staff members monitor living conditions as well as the residents’ overall well-being and contentment. The employees that provide services and care for our Clinton Township senior living community is made up of all caregivers who sincerely want the best for our residents. They work hard to provide professional and caring service to each resident.
Wrap Up
When it comes to assisted living, it’s critical to distinguish between myths and facts. Moving out of one’s own home, where one is accustomed to living, may be difficult and stressful for a senior.
However, if they can locate a neighborhood that fulfills their requirements, they will be less worried in the long term. Parkdale is the best Clinton Township senior living community, providing a caring atmosphere and a devoted team that aims to help each resident maintain their freedom.
