If you or a loved one is finding it difficult to manage daily activities like cooking, cleaning, and keeping up on personal care, health care, or simply need more fun and social interactions in your life? Assisted living might be a good option.

What is Assisted Living?

Assisted living is a type of senior housing that provides a combination of housing, personal care, health services if needed, safety checks, meal plans, and social programs. Some senior adults need assistance with activities for daily living, others want a more vibrant aging experience with a built in lifestyle and people nearby to enjoy it with. It’s more than senior independent living and it’s definitely not a nursing home. It’s designed to provide a supportive environment that allows seniors to maintain their independence while getting the help they need or the social lifestyle they want.

Who is Assisted Living For (and Not For)?

Assisted living is a good option for seniors who may be experiencing physical or cognitive changes that make it difficult for them to live on their own, but who do not need the level of medical care that is provided in a nursing home.

It is also for seniors that are tired of maintaining a home and life on their own and going a long time between social interactions.

That being said, assisted living isn’t for everyone. It’s not for seniors who need extensive medical care that requires 24/7 supervision or for people with a dementia diagnosis. In those cases, memory care, a nursing home, or in-home care may be a better option.

The Benefits of Assisted Living

There are many benefits to assisted living for seniors and their families. Some of the most significant benefits include:

• Personalized care: Assisted living facilities offer personalized care plans to meet the specific needs of each resident. Staff are available to help with things like bathing, dressing, and managing medications, as well as provide companionship and support.
• Support with day-to-day activities: many assisted living facilities offer a dining room where meals are served like a restaurant, as well as housekeeping, and laundry services. This can be a great relief for seniors who may have difficulty with these tasks or for their family members who may have been providing this care.
• A sense of community: Assisted living communities often have a strong sense of community and offer a range of social and recreational activities. Community activities can help seniors stay active and engaged, which is important for both their physical and mental health.
• Safety and security: Assisted living communities are designed with safety in mind and often have features like handrails, emergency call systems, and trained staff on hand to provide assistance if needed. This can give both seniors and their families peace of mind knowing that help is available if needed.
• Flexibility: Assisted living communities offer a range of floor plans and assisted living packages that best fit their needs and preferences.
• Convenience: Assisted living communities often provide a range of amenities and services, such as meals, housekeeping, in-house medical care and transportation, which can make life easier and more convenient for residents.

When is it time for assisted living?

It can be difficult to determine when it is time for assisted living as each person’s situation is unique. There are some signs that may indicate that it is time to consider assisted living, including:

• Struggling with daily activities: If you or a loved one is having difficulty with things like bathing, dressing, meal preparation or managing medications, assisted living may be a good option.
• Safety concerns: If you or a loved one is at risk of falling or experiencing other accidents due to physical or cognitive changes, assisted living can provide a safer environment.
• Isolation: If you or a loved one is feeling isolated or lonely living on your own, assisted living can provide socialization and companionship…it is not only for senior adults that need healthcare services
• Difficulty maintaining the home: If you or a loved one is struggling to keep up with household tasks like cooking, cleaning, and paying bills, assisted living can provide support and assistance.
• Need for support: If you’re struggling to provide the necessary care and support for your loved one at home, assisted living can provide the help you need.

Other questions to consider when deciding if assisted living is the right choice may include:

• How much support is needed with daily activities?
• Are there any specific medical conditions or needs that need to be addressed?
• What is the budget for senior housing options?
• Are there any specific amenities or services that are important?

Now that you have the answer to ‘what is assisted living?’ and some tips on other things to think about it might be time to visit a local assisted living community – reach out to us here to schedule a visit to Northern Lakes.