Assisted living might be the right option if your loved one needs help managing their medications, bathing, dressing and eating. As you explore your options, schedule tours of several facilities to meet with administrators, staff and residents. It’s also worth exploring Medicaid resources in your state to see if there are ways to make assisted living more affordable.
Improved Health
Assisted living is an excellent choice for seniors who need more help with daily activities than their family and friends can provide. These communities have staff around the clock to assist with scheduled needs and unexpected issues.
In addition, the community provides access to recreational and social activities, such as group discussions, crafting workshops and trips to local attractions. These activities keep the mind sharp and social connections strong, which can improve overall health and boost happiness levels. Many facilities like Westminster Suncoast, St. Petersburg also offers raised toilets, safer bathing and hallway handrails to minimize fall. In addition, assisted living residents can take advantage of physical therapy programs, which can increase strength and endurance, reduce pain, and improve balance and mobility.
Better Sleep
Getting quality sleep is essential for maintaining health in later life. Lack of sleep can lead to memory consolidation issues, increased heart disease risk, and impaired immune system function. Assisted living communities encourage regular night routines that promote better sleeping habits. A bedtime routine can include avoiding FaceTime with sleep-disrupting devices 1-2 hours before bed, taking a warm bath or shower, and listening to relaxing music in the dark. A consistent daily wake time also improves sleep. If your senior kin has to use the bathroom often at night, they may need to get out of bed. This is normal, but it can keep them awake. Try to find something more relaxing that doesn’t require them to leave their room to do, like a hobby or reading a book.
More Socialization
According to studies, people who routinely interact with others are more likely to take good care of their bodies and minds, which leads to a longer lifetime than people who live alone. They may also have a lower risk of getting dementia or Alzheimer’s disease and are more likely to seek medical attention if they suffer a health problem. A senior’s lifelong learning program may also encourage neuron generation in the brain, helping to reduce the likelihood of memory loss. It helps improve attention span, reasoning, and thinking skills, which can lower stress levels. If you are concerned that your loved one is spending too much time alone, assisted living may be the right option for them. Daily and weekly activities allow them to connect with other residents and meet new people.
More Independence
Whether they’ve had a fall, accident or health complications, the security of knowing help is just a call away in assisted living gives families peace of mind. And that’s priceless. With help with daily activities, seniors can explore new interests and hobbies or spend more time pursuing their favorite pastimes. They can also attend group outings, which offer safe opportunities to explore their communities and make meaningful connections. Families seeking to maximize their loved one’s independence with the support they need should speak with a Medicaid planning professional. These experts can creatively structure assets to ensure eligibility for Medicaid. This allows seniors to receive care without compromising their financial security.
Less Stress
Assisted living can also help your loved one manage stress associated with depression and other health concerns. When you’re not tasked with caring for your home, shopping for groceries or making meals, you can devote more time to activities that provide emotional and intellectual stimulation. Several community activities offer opportunities to learn something new. For example, many facilities partner with local colleges to host guest lecturers on topics of interest to seniors.
Touring a facility before you decide to move to assisted living is important. Visit various times—including during social activities and mealtimes—to get an accurate sense of the experience. Talking to residents and staff members about their experiences is also helpful. This will help you find a place where your loved one can feel at home.
